Connecticut Water Trails Program

Estuaries

Estuaries Are Vital To Humans

Estuaries are important parts of our lives; interconnected to our economy, hobbies and culture, and an important part of our coastal and ocean ecosystems.  

Estuaries are important parts of our lives. Whether you live near the coast or many, many miles inland, you need estuaries and your actions affect estuaries. Estuaries are interconnected to our economy, hobbies and culture. Estuaries are a vital part of our coastal and ocean ecosystems.

Recreational Benefits 

Recreational activities – such as fishing, birding, boating and hiking – are enjoyed by millions of Americans each year in estuaries bringing income to coastal communities.

Recreational fishing in estuaries by small boat angler is hugely popular in the U.S. Also, many Americans also enjoy bird-watching, boating, visiting the beach, sight seeing, botanical studies, hiking and camping in and near estuaries.

Estuaries provide a place for families and friends to enjoy their hobbies and spend time together in unique and beautiful areas. And, these activities, often called eco-tourism, support local economies near estuaries. Fishermen buy fresh bait, tackle and food. Boaters pay marina fees and perhaps hotel fees. Tourists eat in local restaurants and buy locals goods. Coastal and marine waters contribute $30 billion to the U.S. economy through recreational fishing, and provide a tourism destination for 89 million Americans each year.

Show Me The Money

Estuaries play an important role in the U.S. economy. They attract tourists who like fishing, boating and other water sports. They are an important part of the shipping industry because there are many industrial ports located in estuaries. Estuaries are also a critical part of the commercial fishing industry. It is estimated that over 75 percent of all the fish that are caught by commercial fishing operations lived in an estuary for at least part of their life cycle.

For Your Protection

Estuaries are more than just a place for animals and plants to live. They also help control pollution. Water from upland areas often carries sediment and pollutants. The marshy land and plants in estuaries filter these pollutants out of the water. The plants in estuaries  help prevent shoreline erosion. Estuaries also protect inland areas from flooding and storm surges. When a storm hits, estuaries often absorb water from the storm before it can reach upland areas.

Environmental Importance

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