Major Features of the Apalachicola Bay System: Physiography, Biota,and Resource Management,

摘要

A review was made of various features of the Apalachicola Bay System. Unique physical,chemical,and biological features of this system combine to make it one of the most productive estuarine areas in the state of Florida. Primary productivity and secondary productivity are discussed in relation to various forcing functions (natural and man-induced). Problems associated with development include dredging,sewage effluents,pesticides and a number of up-river activities such as industrialization,cattle ranching,channelization,and damming. The Apalachicola Drainage System is viewed as one of the largest relatively unpolluted areas in the country. However,it is a neglected resource with little management or control;as such it is presently endangered by a number of activities.