Man's Alteration of Estuaries by Dredging and Filling a Grave Threat to Marine Resources

Despite the recognized importance of estuaries to the well-bing and economy of our Nation, these areas are being unwisely exploited to develop water-front real estate by dredging and filling operations. Accumulative adverse effects of these activities threaten the precarious balance of nature. The Fish and Wildlife Service, working closely with appropriate state agencies to conserve estaurine areas, has made little headway. The power of public opinion, suppored by sound scientific data concerning the importance and continuing value of estuaries, offers hope for success.