A Four-Point Strategy for Improving Coastal Water Quality

Dean, Sharon E.; ,

A Four-Point Strategy for Improving Coastal Water Quality

by Sharon E. Dean, New England Aquarium, Boston, United States,

Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Coastal Zone '91

Abstract:

Pollution from point- and non-point sources has altered the basic chemical and physical composition of near-shore waters. At the same time we are bombarding bays and estuaries with a steady stream of pollutants, we are compounding the problem by destroying these system's defenses. Coastal wetlands and wetlands bordering major river systems tributary to the coastal zone perform vital pollution control and habitat functions for coastal waters, and they are being destroyed at an alarming rate world-wide (Dean, October, 1990). To stem the steady rise in water pollution and bring about improvements in coastal water quality, Massachusetts is moving aggressively to establish coast-wide monitoring and research, strengthen water quality regulations, integrate land use management with water quality management, and achieve 'no net loss' of coastal wetlands.

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