Patterns and Processes in Human Coastal Development** **Presentation based on: Bookman, C.A., T.J. Culliton and M.A. Warren Trends in U. S. Coastal Regions,

Trends Shaping the Coastal Environment Population growth and settlement pattern Social trends Recreation and tourism Commerce Energy and mineral resources Fisheries resources Environmental quality Coastal hazards Government and management

Population Growth and Settlement Pattern Coastal areas crowded –Current population 141 million in coastal counties Growth of coastal areas continues –Population will reach 166 million by 2015 Natural features are diminished or lost –Green space/wildlife habitat/water quality decrease –Urban runoff/solid waste production increase Population density in coastal areas increasing –14 of the 20 largest US cities are in coastal zone

Social Trends Change from concept of infinite resources to finite resources Resources can be harmed by human activities Oceans and coastal areas important to human health NGOs important players

The most significant economic activity within the coastal zone Government responsible for providing conditions for these to flourish Much left to be done in this arena Recreation and Tourism

Water-related Commerce Both foreign and domestic waterborne transportation increasing Shift from cargo to passengers Ports under pressure to respond to –Changing intermodal transport systems –Environmental regulations pertaining to ports Requires coordinated national effort to develop appropriate infrastructure

Energy and Mineral Resources Federal offshore lands are source of petroleum Imported petroleum comes by ship Large fraction of untapped petroleum in offshore reservoirs

Fishery Resources U.S. fishery landings have increased over the past 50 years Maximum fish production by oceans and coastal waters has been reached Seek long-term sustainable fisheries Aquaculture may be important alternative to wild harvest

Environmental Quality Water quality is most important aspect of environmental quality Point source pollution control successful –Wastewater treatment plants –Ocean dumping/dredge deposits Non-point pollution increasing –Growth in population Coastal habitats threatened

Water Quality Nutrient levels –Algal growth and harmful algal blooms Pathogen contamination –Source: treated sewage, septic tanks, runoff –Beach water monitoring important Chemicals –Since 1940, 70,000 chemicals introduced into marine environment –Oil spills continue to occur—from rigs and vessels Debris and litter

Habitat Losses Critical habitats are: –Wetlands, including estuaries and mangroves –Seagrass beds –Coral reefs Non-indigenous species Habitat restoration

Coastal Hazards Coastal storms –Increasing population at risk –Increased property valuation –Disrupt ecosystems –Damage and costs increasing Need better predictive capabilities Need better building codes

Coastal zone governed by fragmented, complex laws and regulations –Law of the Sea Convention 200 mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) Regional management, e.g. fisheries –Experience with coastal zone management –Integrated management Bring stakeholders together (economic, social and environmental Governance and Management