This study examined the affects of urban sprawl on the mangrove ecosystems of Puerto Rico. Data on urban sprawl, water quality, mangrove leaves, and mangrove distribution were analyzed statistically and with GIS software. The data indicated a correlation between urban sprawl and increased water pollution levels. Increased hydrocarbons were found to harm mangrove tree health. Urban expansion greatly reduced mangrove tree distribution until the 1970's. Since, mangrove trees have crept into protected and undeveloped areas, and their distribution has increased.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Sankey, Michael Eric
• Odegard, Jared Mark
• Schachterle, Stephen
• Brito, Mark Phillip

Subject

• Community
• Environment
• Infrastructure
• Sustainability

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• 99D238I

Keyword

• Water resources development
• Habitat conservation
• City planning
• Sustainability

Advisor

• Rissmiller, Kent J.
• Addison, W. A. Bland

Year

• 1999

Center

• San Juan, Puerto Rico Project Center - IQP

Sponsor

• Sea Grant, University of Puerto Rico

Date created

• 1999-01-01

Location

• San Juan

Resource type

• Interactive Qualifying Project

Rights statement

• In Copyright

Last modified

• 2021-01-27