Estuaries are the bodies of water which connect the ocean to inland rivers and streams—where saltwater and freshwater meet. They are essential to the health of a thriving coastline as they provide homes for a multitude of species at varying stages of life, and produce durable vegetation which helps to keep the sediments stationary during storms—thus protecting homes, businesses, and livelihoods. Estuaries act as nurseries for 85%-90% of commercially harvested fish. Due to rising populations along the coastal regions of the United States, many of these estuarine environments have become negatively impacted. Loss of habitat, overconsumption of natural freshwater, overfishing, and eutrophication are only a few of the problems evoking disastrous results within our nation’s estuarine environments. With all of this, what are some of the ways an individual could reduce the impact on their local estuary?

1. Fewer pesticides and weed killers.

Every time it rains these chemicals are being transported from your yard to the closest body of water. These chemicals can impact the acidity of local bodies of water, and therefore, can be detrimental to bivalve (shellfish) populations. Pesticides also have a tendency to kill the birds of prey who happen to feed upon contaminated vermin or fish. Owls, Hawks, Osprey, and others are put at risk of poisoning.

2. Rocks as opposed to grass.

This goes hand-in-hand with the limited use of weed killers and pesticides. It has become something of an American cultural staple to have an aesthetically pleasing, freshly manicured lawn of magnificent green. But fighting to preserve the integrity of your lawn can wreak havoc on local bodies of water. Pristine lawns were never meant to grow naturally on barrier islands. The same nutrients that help to keep your lawn healthy—due to rainwater runoff—directly contribute to a process known as eutrophication within estuarine environments. Eutrophication occurs when the water body becomes too nutrient rich, and if gone untreated can turn estuaries hypoxic—low oxygen levels. This can lead to fish kills. Rock yards can be difficult to maintain, but they help to lessen the impact an individual household has on local estuarine environments.

3. Curbing individual boat use/ responsible boating.

Boating is one of the best parts about vacationing or living near the ocean. It would be unrealistic to say that we should stop—even if that would be for the best. Gas/oil leaks and general pollution are only part of the problem. Reckless driving can damage essential seabed vegetation and injure, or kill wildlife. Always drive responsibly. If you are crabbing do everything in your power to secure your traps. Lost traps are referred to as ghost traps, and they will continue to imprison wildlife who will eventually starve or drown (turtles). Respect bag limits when fishing, and please do not fish/hunt without a permit.

4. Reduce waste.

This one is relatively simple: please do not litter. If you see garbage on the beach, or along a marsh or bay, dispose of it yourself! Every effort, no matter how small, is appreciated.

5. Keep things as natural as possible.

If you are planning on moving to/building on the shore avoid the back-bay area of barrier islands! Although this may be one of the most beautiful locations to situate your home these are the most heavily impacted areas during storms. Naturally, these areas are home to ever-shifting marshland—barrier islands move (or at least they’re supposed to)! This marshland is supposed to help absorb storm surge, and in the event of extreme flooding, marshes can help to protect surrounding neighborhoods. If the marsh is compromised for home development the entire area is put at greater risk during hurricanes or floods. Also, when living in close proximity to the coast always try to keep natural vegetation in place over foreign flowers. Both natural marsh, and natural trees/shrubbery help to keep sediments stationary during flooding and storms. When the sediments stay stationary it helps to prevent the roads and sidewalks from cracking, and in general, helps the landmass stay intact.