Lake Erie - Eutrophication

Where is lake Erie

Ohio

Define Eutrophication

the process of water bodies becoming enriched with nutrients leading to an excessive growth in algae (algal blooms), lowering oxygen levels & disrupting ecosystems

What caused an increase in nutrients in lake erie?

Slurry, animal waste and fertilizers running off from farms into rivers that drain into lake Erie

Explain in more depth the process of eutrophication?

• Nitrogen and phosphorus promote algal growth

• They deplete oxygen levels leading to 10000²km of hypoxic zones - killing aerobic organisms

• Dying algae causes positive feedback and further consumption of oxygen + release of methane

How much has the loss of tourism and fishing cost the government?

$82 million annually

How much has contamination of fresh water systems and drinking water cost?

$65 million annually

How much has the value of surrounding property decreased?

$150 million

What is the future aim?

To reduce dissolved phosphorus runoff by 80%

What can be done to mitigate?

• Implement policies on fertilizer use

• Chemical treatments to reduce phosphorus before irrigation