Changes in the estuary that would reduce freshwater inflow, such as 

 dredging and filling or the introduction of various kinds of pollutants, 

 all influence the estuary in a variety of ways. A thorough knowledge 

 of the relationships of the physical, chemical, and biological 

 factors will enable people to avoid changes that will be most harmful, 

 minimize the destructive effects of some changes, and even improve 

 the estuary for production of desirable aquatic life. (B.W.) 



Keywords: estuaries, aquatic ecosystems, productivity, fisheries resources, 

 estuarine animals, environmental change, U.S. Atlantic coast 



IV-C-9 



Wass, M.L., and T.D. Wright. 1969. Coastal wetlands of Virginia, interim 

 report. Special Report in Applied Marine Science and Ocean Engineering 

 No. 10. Virginia Institute of Marine Science, Gloucester Point. 

 154 pp. 



Coastal wetlands occupy only 1 percent of the total area of Virgina 



and marshes occupy 1/2 percent. Yet 95 percent of Virginia's annual 



harvest of fish, both commercial and sport, from tidal waters is 

 dependent to some degree on wetlands. 



Wetland productivity ranges from yery little on some small salt 

 barrens to about 10 tons per acre per year in the best grass marshes. 

 Productivity on the tidal flats, which apparently cover more area 

 than does marsh on the eastern shore seaside, is probably at least 

 one-fourth that in the marsh. Virginia has not yet adopted a legal 

 definition of wetlands. Such a definition is needed before protective 

 legislation can be enacted. 



Preliminary economic evaluation of wetland productivity indicates 

 that an average acre of wetland generates primary tangible benefits 

 of $78 per year. These benefits largely accrue to the public rather 

 than to the wetland owner. Present wetland use and management is 

 determined by the owner and often does not constitute the most 

 beneficial use of the land to the public. To insure continuing high 

 yields, to enhance value, and to serve the best public interests, 

 it is recommended that the state acquire or otherwise exercise some 

 degree of control over the uses and alterations of wetlands. (A. A.) 



Keywords: coastal marsh, freshwater swamps, productivity, planning and 

 management, Virginia 



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