3. Summary . 



a. Potential Benefits ; 



(1) Marsh ecology - tidal marshes are ecologically valuable. 



(2) Nutrient cycling - tidal marshes have substantial absorptive 

 capacities of potential pollutants. 



(3) Esthetic - tidal marshes are esthetically pleasing. 



b. Potential Negative Impact : 



(1) Public access - tidal marshes discourage some water-oriented 

 recreational activities (fishing, swimming, and sunbathing). 



(2) Heavy metal release - tidal marshes may concentrate and 

 export some heavy metals. 



(3) Introducing nuisance species - some tidal marsh plants are 

 considered to have little environmental value. 



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