Coastal watersheds differ from others by their unique features, includingproximity to the ocean, weather and rainfall patterns, subsurface features,and land covers. Land use changes and competing needs for valuable water and land resources are distinctive to such watersheds. Surface water is a valued resource of significant economic, ecologic, cultural, and aesthetic importance. Streams supply irrigation water and can be the main source of drinking water in some places. Streams also provide important habitats for many unique native species. Water quality of receiving waters, such as estuaries, bays, and nearshore waters, are negatively impacted by stream chemical, biological, and sediments. Coastal groundwater aquifers are negatively affected by land use changes, leading to reduced recharge and increased chemical use, and threat of saltwater intrusion. Limited water resources and concerns regarding water quality necessitate the need for bestmanagement practices.

Coastal Watershed Management (Progress in Water Resources) PDF

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