Clean Coastal Waters: Understanding and Reducing the Effects of Nutrient Pollution - Hardcover

National Research Council; Commission On Geosciences, Environment, And Resources; Water Science And Technology Board; Ocean Studies Board; Committee On The Causes And Management Of Coastal Eutrophication

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0309069483 ISBN 13: 9780309069489

Publisher: National Academies Press, 2000

Synopsis

Environmental problems in coastal ecosystems can sometimes be attributed to excess nutrients flowing from upstream watersheds into estuarine settings. This nutrient over-enrichment can result in toxic algal blooms, shellfish poisoning, coral reef destruction, and other harmful outcomes. All U.S. coasts show signs of nutrient over-enrichment, and scientists predict worsening problems in the years ahead. Clean Coastal Waters explains technical aspects of nutrient over-enrichment and proposes both immediate local action by coastal managers and a longer-term national strategy incorporating policy design, classification of affected sites, law and regulation, coordination, and communication. Highlighting the Gulf of Mexico's "Dead Zone," the Pfiesteria outbreak in a tributary of Chesapeake Bay, and other cases, the book explains how nutrients work in the environment, why nitrogen is important, how enrichment turns into over-enrichment, and why some environments are especially susceptible. Economic as well as ecological impacts are examined. In addressing abatement strategies, the committee discusses the importance of monitoring sites, developing useful models of over-enrichment, and setting water quality goals. The book also reviews voluntary programs, mandatory controls, tax incentives, and other policy options for reducing the flow of nutrients from agricultural operations and other sources.

About this title

About the Author

Committee on the Causes and Management of Eutrophication, Ocean Studies Board, Water Science and Technology Board, National Research Council

Edition details

• Publisher: National Academies Press
• Publication date: 2000
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0309069483
• ISBN 13: 9780309069489
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 428