The protection of shorelines is important because of two reasons - shoreline areas often contain unique habitats for plants and animals and without protection the habitats can be completely lost. Because shorelines, especially ones in brackish water areas, containing a mix of fresh and salt water, and shallow, they contain very unique plants and animals that have responded to the specific conditions of those habitats, so essential it is important to protect these specialized species, if we believe that life is special. Without protection these areas, including the specialized plants and animals can disappear. Second, shoreline areas have developed over time to act as a barrier between the land and water, plants that capture the nutrients and prevent erosion have adapted to these areas. Without the protection these barrier shoreline habitats provide, there would be an increased loss of nutrients in the surrounding soils, as well as a decrease in the amount of top soil. Shoreline areas halt and/or slow the effects of erosion. It addition to habit loss for plants and other animals, humans can feel the effects through the loss of their own homes and/or businesses when shoreline areas are overexposed, which can expose humans to the devastating effects of nature from storms and flooding.
<span>It is important to protect our shores for environmental reasons. Just past the shores are grasses that provide habitat for birds and other animals. The shoreline is part of the ecosystem and disrupting vegetation throws the environment out of balance. In addition, the shoreline needs to be preserved to sustain economic vitality. Homes and businesses are often just past the shoreline. Without protection, an eroded shoreline will lower property values.</span>
The physical feature that can be found throughout the Yucatan Peninsula are Cenotes. These are caves and sinkholes that were used to access the groundwater and for sacrificial offerings by the Maya. These features are natural swimming holes.
