Nutrients, such as in fertilizers, are important to the good health of plants and animals. But too many nutrients can disturb the natural balance of aquatic ecosystems, creating nutrient pollution. For example, high concentrations of nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorous can cause excessive growth of algae, which blocks sunlight from aquatic plants. Algal growth also uses up the oxygen that fish and other aquatic species need to survive. High levels of nitrogen-based compounds reaching groundwater can also impact the health of people relying on well water. Agricultural and household fertilizers, dairies, household cleaners, treated sewage, deposition from vehicle exhaust, and other sources contribute dangerous levels of nutrients to many of California's water bodies.
Selected maps: Back to All Impaired Waterbodies | Bacteria Pollution | Mercury Pollution | Sediment Pollution
The nutrient pollution map above shows all surface waters impaired by one or more of the following pollutants: nitrogen, phosphorous, algae, ammonia, nitrate, and low dissolved oxygen.
