In terms of stormwater management, which method is essential for protecting water quality?

Implementing nutrient management practices is crucial for protecting water quality because it helps control the amount of nutrients, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, that enter water bodies. These nutrients can lead to harmful algal blooms, decreased oxygen levels, and overall degradation of aquatic ecosystems. By managing how and when fertilizers are applied, as well as incorporating soil health practices, nutrient runoff can be significantly reduced.

This approach involves assessing the nutrient needs of crops or landscapes and applying fertilizers in precise amounts, timing, and methods to minimize runoff into nearby waterways. Such practices not only promote healthy plant growth but also protect water resources from excess nutrient loading that can compromise aquatic health.

In contrast to nutrient management practices, increasing the use of chemical fertilizers can exacerbate water quality issues, and minimizing green infrastructure can limit natural filtration processes that mitigate runoff. Dismantling existing Best Management Practices (BMPs) would further exacerbate stormwater issues by removing established systems designed to reduce pollutants entering water bodies.