Abstract |
The eutrophication of surface waters by excess nutrients is a growing problem worldwide. It remains the largest single cause of water quality degradation in U.S. lakes and estuaries, in spite of extensive and substantial improvements in water quality due to the Clean Water Act. While nutrients are essential to life and ecosystem functions, excessive nutrients can cause nuisance algal and plant growth, oxygen depletion, loss of water clarity, loss of desirable species, loss of biodiversity, flavor effects on drinking water, increased probability of human and animal pathogens, and other water quality impairments. In recognition of the continuing water quality degradation ascribed to nutrient enrichment, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) is developing regional nutrient criteria guidelines. |