Nutrients in the Watershed

Official Position Statement Approved by WEF

Date of Approval: October 6, 2022

Date of Expiration: October 5, 2027

Too many nutrients entering waterbodies cause eutrophication, which can lead to harmful algal blooms (HABs) and adverse impacts to aquatic life, causing problems in recreational, food and drinking water sources. Climate change can exacerbate these effects by intensifying drought conditions, lowering available oxygen, and increasing surface water temperatures. Additionally, severe storms can increase runoff and the transfer of nutrients from land to waterbodies.

Since the establishment of the Clean Water Act, there have been significant advancements in nutrient removal processes and technologies, and in the reduction in nutrients entering water bodies from regulated sources such as water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs). However, many sources such as runoff from agricultural fields, animal feedlots, and urban and suburban developments remain significant contributors to nutrient pollution in waterbodies.

READ WEF'S OFFICIAL POSITION STATEMENT ON NUTRIENTS IN THE WATERSHED

Related Areas

Latest News
Latest News
Delivering a Reliable Water Supply in All Weathers, Thanks to Active Mixing
See more
Small, Disconnected Wetlands Trap Twice as Much Nitrogen
See more
New York City Earmarks $400 Million For Flood Infrastructure, Information
See more
U.S. EPA Proposes Drinking Water Regulations for PFAS
See more
Words on Water #233: Paul Bishop on Becoming Water Professionals International
See more
Upcoming WEF Events
Upcoming WEF Events
WEF/AWWA Utility Management Conference 2023
See more
WEF/IWA Residuals and Biosolids Conference 2023
See more
Odors and Air Pollutants 2023
See more
WEF/IWA Innovations in Process Engineering Conference 2023
See more