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National Estuaries in the Southeast
Estuaries are unique areas where freshwater from rivers mixes with saltwater from the ocean. These coastal water bodies are among the most biologically productive places on earth, comparable to rainforests and coral reefs. Estuaries are especially important in the southeast as recreational areas and barriers against damaging storm waves and floods.
Six estuaries within Region 4 have been determined to be estuaries of national significance and have been designated as National Estuary Programs (NEPs). EPA partners with other federal, state and local government agencies and other interested stakeholders to develop action plans to restore and maintain the water quality and biological resources of each estuarine system. The NEP also focuses on maintaining the economic, recreational and aesthetic values of the estuaries.
The six NEPs in the southeast are:
- Albemarle-Pamlico Sounds, North Carolina
Additional information is available from the EPA web site for the Albemarle-Pamlico NEP.
- Charlotte Harbor, Florida
Additional information is available from the EPA web site for the Charlotte Harbor NEP.
- Indian River Lagoon, Florida
Additional information is available from the EPA web site for the Indian River NEP.
- Mobile Bay, Alabama
Additional information is available from the EPA web site for the Mobile Bay NEP.
- Sarasota Bay, Florida
Additional information is available from the EPA web site for the Sarasota Bay NEP.
- Tampa Bay, Florida
Additional information is available from the EPA web site for the Tampa Bay NEP.