4.03 Chesapeake Bay

Front

What is the largest estuary in the United States?

Back

Chesapeake Bay

Front

What are estuaries?

Back

Estuaries are coastal areas where freshwater from rivers meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean.

Front

What is one benefit of estuaries for humans?

Back

They offer jobs and recreation.

Front

How do estuaries help filter pollution?

Back

By filtering out pollution and sediments from streams and rivers.

Front

What can improve the conditions of the Chesapeake Bay?

Back

Better managing human activities on the land.

Front

What happens when there is too much nutrients in an estuary?

Back

Algae blooms and oxygen levels deplete.

Front

Why are estuaries important for wildlife?

Back

They provide habitat and breeding grounds for many species.

Front

What is nutrient over-enrichment?

Back

It is when excess nutrients, often from fertilizers, enter water bodies, leading to harmful algal blooms.

Front

What role do wetlands play in estuaries?

Back

Wetlands act as natural filters, absorbing pollutants and providing habitat.

Front

How do human activities impact estuaries?

Back

Human activities can lead to pollution, habitat destruction, and nutrient over-enrichment.