Fertilizer Runoff

Fertilizer runoff occurs when excess nutrients from fertilizers applied to lawns, gardens, or fields are washed away by rain or irrigation. These nutrients, mainly nitrogen and phosphorus, can enter nearby water bodies like rivers, lakes, or streams. In the water, they can promote excessive algae growth, leading to problems such as oxygen depletion, which harms aquatic life. This process not only affects water quality but can also create issues like dead zones where aquatic life struggles to survive. Proper application and timing of fertilizers help reduce runoff and protect water ecosystems.