What is included in the definition of "Coastal Waters"?

The definition of "Coastal Waters" refers specifically to the areas within the coastal zone that are directly influenced by the proximity to the ocean or sea. This generally includes estuaries, bays, and tidal waters, while explicitly excluding the Great Lakes, which are considered distinct water bodies due to their freshwater nature and unique ecosystems.

Option B accurately captures this understanding by recognizing that these waters are part of the coastal zone but clarifying that the Great Lakes are not included in this definition. Coastal waters serve as critical habitats and have regulatory frameworks for pollution prevention and response, distinct from those governing freshwater systems like the Great Lakes.

The other options do not align with the accepted definitions. For example, while the Great Lakes are significant water bodies, they do not fit the criteria of coastal waters as they are not subject to tidal influences typical in coastal zones. Similarly, options focusing solely on saltwater bodies or specific inland rivers do not encompass the full spectrum of what is recognized as coastal waters, which may include brackish waters and various estuarine environments.