What defines the Coastal Zone in the United States?

The Coastal Zone in the United States is defined as all waters in the U.S. that are subject to the influence of the tide. This encompasses the area of transition between land and sea, including estuaries, bays, and coastal waters. This definition is crucial as it recognizes the dynamic environment where terrestrial and marine ecosystems interact heavily.

Including waters subject to tidal influence helps in managing coastal resources, addressing pollution, and protecting habitats. It also aligns with various federal and state regulations that focus on the unique challenges faced in coastal environments, such as habitat protection, water quality management, and the effects of sea level rise.

The other options, while related to water bodies, do not accurately represent the Coastal Zone. For instance, lakes and rivers are typically categorized separately from tidal waters, and wetlands, although important ecosystems, are defined by their saturation and vegetation rather than the tidal influence. Likewise, the open ocean beyond three miles is generally not considered part of the Coastal Zone as it lacks direct interaction with the coastal habitats defined by tidal impact.