The effects of recreation on freshwater plants and animals: A review

Abstract

This paper reviews the impacts of recreation on freshwater plants and animals. A distinction is made between water- and shore-based activities, and between physical and chemical effects. The impacts of water-based recreation, which result mainly from boating, are discussed in terms of wash, turbulence and turbidity, propeller action, direct contact, disturbance to animals, pollution from outboard motors and sewage. Those resulting from shore-based activities, such as angling and swimming, include trampling and associated effects, as well as sewage and other chemical impacts. The effects of management for recreation are also considered. There is relatively more information on the effects of recreational activities on plants than on animals, but the authors consider that further research is required in both fields. Some possible approaches are presented.