Water form the disposal wells could significantly impact specific areas of the Florida reefs. Test results have recently proven that groundwaters below the reefs contain nutrients, like ammonia. Continued tidal pumping will allow this ground water to seep into the porous limestone, which is bedrock beneath the Keys. As this contaminant enters the water columns leading to the reefs, it will restrict coral growth. In addition, many natural events have contributed to the demise of reefs.
Hurricanes severely impact the health of corals in short time periods.
Also, a mysterious event has nearly eliminated Diadema, the algae eating urchin. There are certain fish that can control algae in the reefs, but harvesting has reduced their presence. Many coral species are now at risk due to the temperature increase in the Atlantic. Since these natural processes are already causing reef morbidity, we, as humans, should try to eliminate any activities that adversely affect reef development.