What is an estuary?

An estuary is defined as a coastal area where fresh water from rivers and streams meets and mixes with salt water from the ocean. This unique environment is characterized by its varying salinity levels, depending on factors such as tides, weather, and the flow of freshwater. Estuaries are vital ecosystems that support a diverse range of plants and animals, both aquatic and terrestrial, making them crucial for biodiversity.

Additionally, estuaries serve as nurseries for many marine species, providing sheltered waters where young fish and other organisms can grow and thrive before moving into the open ocean. They also play an essential role in water filtration and serving as buffers against storms, helping to protect coastal communities from flooding and erosion.