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Main Menu :Estuary BasicsWhat Is Restoration? Why Restore Estuaries? Habitat Loss Nationwide The Economics of Estuaries Major Causes of Habitat Loss Top 10 Estuary FactsWhat is an Estuary? ![]() ![]() Why are healthy estuaries important to us? Estuaries are a critical source for much of our ocean life. Their bounty forms a natural wonder that offers the more than 50% of Americans who live near estuaries, and the millions who visit, a wealth of recreational opportunities. Estuaries provide essential habitat for over 75 percent of our nation's commercial fish catch. Commercial and recreational fishing, boating and tourism also provide more than 28 million jobs. Fishing alone generates $111 billion yearly in economic activity. The tourism value of estuaries to local and regional economies is significant: in 1993 more than 180 million Americans visited coastal waters nationwide -- nearly 70 percent of the U.S. population. And, in one year alone (1991), 73 million people in the U.S. spent more than $10 billion on recreational boating products and services. Estuaries are important to our quality of life and our health for reasons other than jobs, healthy economies, and recreational opportunities. The local bay or sound often serves as the focal point for community life and traditions, hosting everything from harvest festivals to busy ports. They also protect water quality, are a center for research and education, and help stem the erosion of our shoreline communities. Estuaries, in short, are national treasures -- vital ecological and community resources whose health affects our health and the vibrancy of our communities and economy. Click here for a link to the 2008 Conference Registration Page |