Excess Nutrients
Excess Nutrients cause algae blooms, which deplete oxygen in the water. Sources include fertilizer and animal waste.
Sediment
Sediment from construction sities is harmful to aquatic plants and animals. Sediment can also transport other pollution to our water bodies.
Impermeable Surfaces
Surfaces like roads, parking lots and sidewalks resist rainwater causing debris and pollutants to run off and enter our storm sewers, streams and bodies of water.
Toxic Chemicals
Toxic chemicals like insecticides, pesticides, motor oil and anti-freeze are poisonous. When fish or shellfish ingest them the chemicals can pass into the food chain.
Debris
Debris like plastic bags, bottles and cigarette butts can choke, suffocate or disable aquatic life.
Bacteria/Pathogens
Bacteria/Pathogens are a health risk when washed into swimming areas. Sources include sewage and animal waste.