Estuaries

Estuaries are among the most biologically productive and geomorphologically complex environments in the coastal zone. A review of research is presented, focusing on broad scale estuarine morphology and evolution and an examination of contemporary processes and forms in the intertidal zone. The chapter includes a discussion of current issues in estuarine research, including geomorphic-biotic interactions, human-modified estuaries, and restoration practices. The chapter concludes with a brief discussion of future areas of concern given current attention to climate variability and sea level rise.