Roberta Swann has been the director of the Mobile Bay National Estuary Program since 2009. Created in 1987, the National Estuary Program brings together stakeholders in government, industry, business and academia to create a comprehensive plan for “estuaries of national significance,” such as the Mobile Bay.

Swann has a background in business management and community development. Before joining the Mobile Bay NEP in 2004, she worked with the Dauphin Island Sea Lab to establish its foundation, and worked for the City of Lafayette, Ind., in the community redevelopment department.

Here, Swann discusses threats the Mobile Bay watershed, how development can be managed and valuing our coastal environment.

Questions and answers have been condensed and edited for clarity.

What are some threats to, the Mobile Bay, to the estuary, to the watershed here in the area?