Coastal Community FAQ - Where can I find studies on water use planning and management in Delaware's Inland Bays and the Nanticoke River?

Delaware Inland Bays

Delaware's Inland Bays are threatened by ever-increasing impacts from anthropogenic sources. Since the late 1950's multiple-use priorities which endanger these ecosystems have emerged. These uses include industrial water supply, wastewater disposal, commercial propagation and harvesting of fish and shellfish, and various recreational uses and their related support systems. Delaware has recognized the importance of water quality for recreation and has designated the Inland Bays as waters of exceptional recreational and ecological significance (ERES). ERES waters are accorded a level of protection in excess of that provided most other state waters.

For more information, see these reports:

• Delmarva’s Coastal Bays: Reporting the Opinions, Attitudes, and Perceptions of Select Interest Groups (1997)
• Recreational Boating on Delaware’s Inland Bays: Implications for Social and Environmental Carrying Capacity (1992)

Nanticoke River

Recreational and commercial uses of the Nanticoke River have increased over the past few years. In order to address the waterway use conflicts, boating safety, and environmental concerns, it is necessary to fully understand the nature of the activities causing the problems. To accomplish this, the Delaware Sea Grant Marine Advisory Service is working with the Nanticoke Watershed Alliance, Maryland Department of Natural Resources, and Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control to study existing activities and conditions on the river, identify current and potential problems, and develop recommendations to resolve critical issues.

For more information, see this report: Nanticoke River Watershed Boating Assessment Study (1997)