ANEP: About Estuaries - Lower Columbia River Estuary

About Estuaries:
Insights on the NEPs - Lower Columbia River Estuary

Seven priority issues have been identified including:

Toxic Contaminants in Sediments and Fish Tissue: Levels of PCBs, DDE, and dioxin may be linked to reproductive failure in bald eagles, mink, and river otter.

Habitat Loss and Modification: Dams, dikes, maintenance dredging, and land use practices over the last 100 years have significantly altered the estuary.

Conventional Pollutants: Point and nonpoint source pollution have changed Ph, temperature, and dissolved oxygen levels.

Biological Integrity of Species: Anadromous fish runs have declined significantly in recent years. Several species are listed as endangered or threatened.

Impacts of Human Activity & Growth: Certain current and past land use practices have degraded habitat and water quality. Anticipated future growth could lead to further degradation.

Public Awareness & Stewardship: There is a continual need to connect people to the river. Greater awareness will lead to stronger protection of the river.

Institutional Constraints: Currently, many agencies and levels of government are involved in managing and protecting the estuary; coordination of these efforts is important.

For more information regarding the Lower Columbia River Estuary Program:

Call (503) 226-1565

Write us at 811 SW Naito Pkwy, Suite 120, Portland, OR 97204

E-mail us at lcrep@lcrep.org

Please visit our website at http://www.lcrep.org