FRESHWATER INFLOWS, I: Freshwater means life to 
estuaries ... details ahead on Passport to Texas ... 
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PTT from TPWD and the Wildlife Restoration Program

Estuaries act as nurseries for juvenile species of 
saltwater fish. And freshwater inflows keep estuaries in 
top form.

Freshwater brings sediments which builds nursery areas. 
Freshwater also brings nutrients which feed the plants and 
animals that grow and form the basis for the food web in the 
estuary. :15

Dave Buzan is the coastal studies team leader. Since the 
1950's we've restricted water flow to the gulf by building 
reservoirs and flood control structures. 

Historically we have controlled water because we know we need 
water for people to drink, for industries, and for agriculture. :09

Human need has changed Texas from a land of rivers and 
streams into a land of impounded water, meaning less 
fresh water reaches our estuaries.

In hindsight, we're able to see that these reservoirs and flood 
control structures we've built have really reduced our ability to 
get water to the estuary on a consistent basis. :12

And when fresh water doesn't flow consistently into 
estuaries, the health of these ecosystems as well as the 
health of a significant segment of our economy suffers 
the consequences. 

And we talk about that on tomorrow's program.

The Wildlife Restoration Program supports our show, and 
funds projects to preserve and restore native habitats in 
Texas. 

For Texas Parks and Wildlife ... I'm Cecilia Nasti.