Home Introduction Physical Setting Urbanization Natural Hazards Mineral Resources Water System Environmental Quality Outdoor Recreation Everglades N.P. Coastal Zone - Dredging & Filling > Canals & Waste - Electric Power - Biscayne National Monument Fish & Wildlife Miccosukee Indians Conclusion References

Originally only one main stream, the Miami River, flowed into Biscayne Bay from Dade County. All other fresh water reached the bay through the transverse glades during flood season, or by coastal seepage. Today, large volumes of runoff rapidly empty into the bay by canals. Fresh water no longer has a chance to mix slowly with salt water in the mangroves, but moves quickly from the farmlands, from the city streets, and from the sewers and industrial outfalls into the bays.

Not only does the large discharge upset the natural balance of life in the bay, but the impurities and pollutants gathered along the way contaminate the water and endanger marine animals. Nutrients from the agricultural fertilizers promote algae blooms. Oil and petroleum byproducts damage intertidal plants and animals. Much of the waste water and storm-water runoff discharging into Biscayne Bay is of poor quality and tends to accumulate locally in the bay because circulation is weak. Already north Biscayne Bay is virtually nonproductive. Unless the quality of water entering the bay is controlled, the rest of Biscayne Bay will suffer a loss of productivity.

As population increases, competition for land, for housing, and for recreation becomes more acute. (Photo by Penny Zobel) [larger image]		Pesticides used in the agricultural areas find their way to the coastal zones through the canals which drain the area. [larger image]

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