The National Estuarine Eutrophication Assessment (NEEA) is a tool for evaluating both current eutrophic condition and the effectiveness of management actions aimed at reducing eutrophic condition. Eutrophication is caused by excess nutrients and is expressed by symptoms such as increased chlorophyll a and macroalgae, and decreased dissolved oxygen. Widespread coastal eutrophication has been reported in a previous national assessment (Bricker et al. 1999). As coastal populations continue to increase, experts are concerned that eutrophication and associated symptoms are also increasing. In response to this concern, it was decided that the 1999 assessment should be updated. This update of the 1999 assessment identifies current eutrophic status and changes since the early 1990s, tracks management progress, and identifies potential solutions for eutrophication. To facilitate this and future assessments, an online survey tool was developed. This tool allows investigators to share data and information effectively, providing a common language by which they can communicate with one another in a standardized manner.
February 5, 2020