Reefs Threatened by Sedimentation and Pollution from Inland Sources
Threats to reefs from sedimentation and pollution from inland sources were modeled for over 3,000 watersheds discharging into the Caribbean. The model incorporates estimates of relative erosion rates across the landscape (based on slope, land cover type, precipitation during the month of maximum rainfall, and soil type) summarized by watershed to estimate resulting sediment delivery at river mouths. Sediment plume dispersion was estimated as a function of distance from the river mouth and calibrated against observed impacts of sediment on coral reefs.
Projects that include this Resource
Reefs at Risk
Visit ProjectRaising awareness of threats to coral reefs and providing information and tools to manage coastal habitats more effectively.
Part of Climate