This investigation is part of a multi-year, interdisciplinary effort by Rutgers University and the USGS that characterizes and quantifies the estuary with regard to watershed nutrient inputs, physical and water quality properties, and biological indicators and responses. Extensive databases collected over the 1989-2011 timeframe have been examined in this study. Component 1 of the study involves watershed nutrient loading quantification from existing (secondary) data. In Component 2, estuarine biotic responses to stressors and the current degree of eutrophication are quantified from new and secondary data. In Component 3, biotic indices are developed, and values of the indices are computed. The current extent and validation of eutrophication are determined in Component 4. Synthesis and management recommendations are developed in Component 5.