What are Nearshore Ecosystems?
The nearshore zone lies from the top of shoreline bluffs, across the beach, and into the water as deep as light penetrates to the bottom. Further, it extends upstream into estuaries to the extant of tidal influence. Nearshore ecosystems include the entire network of connections influencing the nearshore zone and are therefore much broader than the nearshore zone alone. Nearshore ecosystems are influenced by runoff from upland developments, atmospheric conditions and the regulatory feedback of biogeochemical cycles. Nearshore ecosystems provide a common resource to the people of the Puget Sound, from scenic views, an abundance of fish, recreational amenities and wildlife habitat. In order to effectively restore the nearshore zone we are investigating the entire suite of driving forces that influence its future.
