Conserving aquatic habitats

Protecting endangered aquatic habitats

Description

Conserving aquatic habitats involves implementing measures to protect and restore rivers, lakes, wetlands, and marine environments from degradation caused by pollution, overexploitation, habitat destruction, and invasive species. Essential actions include regulating water use, reducing pollutant discharge, restoring natural vegetation, establishing protected areas, and promoting sustainable fisheries. These strategies aim to maintain biodiversity, ensure clean water supplies, and support ecosystem services vital for human well-being and environmental resilience.

Implementation

Essential fish habitat (EFH) is defined in the U.S. Fishery Conservation and Management Act of 1976, as "those waters and substrate necessary to fish for spawning, breeding, feeding, or growth to maturity."