Small streams mitigate human influence on coastal ...(y the ocean. The model showed that remov...)

Date:3/12/2008

y the ocean. The model showed that removal was most effective when nitrate entered small healthy streams and traveled through a stream network before reaching larger water bodies. Participants concluded that, by minimizing the amount of nitrogen pollution exported downstream, streams play a key role in reducing eutrophication in lakes and coastal waters.

By protecting and restoring stream ecosystems, we can maintain or enhance their nitrogen removal capabilities. But, as with any service, overuse can lead to failure. Findlay notes, We should be cautious about using a streams cleansing ability to solve human-generated water quality problems. It is akin to treating the symptoms of a problem rather than the underlying cause, which includes intense agricultural practices and poorly planned development. Our results show streams can help us use natural resources, but this capacity has its limits.

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Contact: Lori Quillen Quillenl@ecostudies.org 845-677-7600 Institute of Ecosystem Studies Source:Eurekalert

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