How do nutrient runoff management practices help aquatic ecosystems?

Nutrient runoff management practices play a crucial role in protecting and enhancing aquatic ecosystems by creating conditions that limit pest proliferation. When excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus from agricultural runoff or urban sources, enter water bodies, they can lead to nutrient pollution. This excessive nutrient load often results in the overgrowth of certain species, particularly microscopic algae (phytoplankton), which can disrupt the balance of the ecosystem.

By implementing effective nutrient management practices, such as proper fertilizer application, buffer strips, and controlled waste management, the amount of nutrients that enter the water is significantly reduced. This limitation helps prevent the conditions that would otherwise promote the rapid proliferation of certain aquatic pests and harmful algal blooms, which can deplete oxygen levels and harm fish and other aquatic organisms. Therefore, these practices are essential in maintaining the health of aquatic environments, ensuring biodiversity, and preserving the natural balance within these ecosystems.