EPA New England Topics

Estuaries

The links below contain information on estuaries. An estuary is a partially enclosed coastal body of water where freshwater from the land measurably dilutes saltwater from the ocean. This mixture of water types creates a unique environment that is critical for the survival of many species of fish, birds, and other wildlife. They provide safe spawning grounds and nurseries for fish and shellfish, ideal resting and refueling places for migratory birds, and habitat for many reptiles, amphibians and mammals. Marshes and other wetlands, which often fringe estuaries, protect marine life and water quality by filtering sediment and pollution from upstream sources. Estuaries also create natural protection to coasts and shorelines from damaging storm waves and floods.

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EPA New England

National Estuary Projects in New England What is an Estuary? Long Island Sound Ocean and Coastal Protection in New England No Discharge Areas in New England Waters

National EPA

National Estuary Program Buzzards Bay Casco Bay Long Island Sound Narragansett Bay New Hampshire Estuaries Mass Bays

General

Estuaries NOAA Buzzard Bay Project Casco Bay Mass Bays University of Rhode Island Estuarine Environments New Hampshire Estuaries Project Narragansett Bay Long Island Sound