Agenda - 10-19-1993 - IV-B - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

FISH NURSERIES Nursery areas for fisheries cover almost 25,000 acres of the Albemarle- Pamlico region. They generally are found in tributary creeks and embayments, where shallow salty waters lay over muddy or grassy bottoms.These areas are of critical importance to the propagation of over 75 species of fish and shellfish.The functions of these nurseries can be impaired by freshwater drainage,land use changes and excessive algal growth.Nursery areas are most threatened by nonpoint sources of pollution and by development on nearby lands. SUBMERGED AQUATIC VEGETATION Submerged aquatic vegetation provides an important habitat for many estuarine species. It helps reduce :::: :::::: '�_\ ,\ current velocities, provides an attach- �� `i ��i ment surface, reduces particulate mat p� l •' �!'� ter, and provides refuge and food. 4 .r , 9 iii'lig 1 i -_ ;, � Anecdotal information indicates that I � / +` /' %oil'1f / there may have been large losses of this/try 1. ,//t�l p ly V /J� i; habitat from historic levels, articular :.te in rivers, creeks and western sounds. //`� ,_- — °" `' , Threats include dredging, mechanical : clam harvesting and water quality `` changes. One species of submerged aquatic vegetation,eelgrass,may be lost as a result of high nitrate levels. SPAWNING AREAS The region's rivers provide a spawning habitat for species such as striped bass,shad and river herring,which live in the ocean but migrate upstream to spawn.The spawning success of such anadromous fish has declined,as evidenced vrdenced b reduced adult landings. -..... Recently,there has been a high level of concern for striped bass that . spawn in the Roanoke River.Throughout the region,access to histori- cal spawning areas frequently has been blocked by dams and roads. SHELLFISH BEDS Clams, oysters and bay scallops have played an important role throughout the history of North Carolina commercial fishing.As filter •: feeders shellfish help remove excess nutrients and suspended sedi- ments from the water and convert them to a food supply for other "' bottom dwelling organisms. ,, _ However, data suggests that shellfish beds, particularly oyster beds, . are declining as well Destruction of shellfish habitats occurs as a result of direct disturbances such as clam kicking,mechanical dredging and >:f:.:. some trawling practices, and indirect disturbances that affect water quality.In recent years,oysters have been severely affected by disease. 20