It is important to protect water near the coast from sediment that may enter when land is disturbed for construction. This is because excess sediment may

Excess sediment in water may cause a reduce in light penetration decreasing  algae's(an important food source)  ability to photosynthesize therefore not allowing it to grow. It will stop fish from seeing well enough to move around or feed. Sediment can clog fish gills, reducing resistance to disease and lowering growth rates.Certain chemical pollutants bind to sediment and so if there is excess sediment it can very rapidly change the water quality. These

chemicals that bind to the sediment are dangerous to small animals and plants as well as larger forms of life.

Explanation: