Pollution in Urban Watersheds: What You Can Do to Help Keep Our Rivers Clean
In urban watersheds, sources of phosphorus pollution can vary, but a USGS study indicates that leaf litter detritus is one of the leading sources. Leaf litter and other organic material, like lawn clippings, leach phosphorus during storms and are fast-tracked to rivers via storm sewers. In excess, phosphorus can cause algal blooms, reduce dissolved oxygen levels, and be harmful to people and wildlife. Fortunately, several studies have examined the highly effective and widespread practice of street sweeping as a way to remove these non-point sources of phosphorus before they reach the rivers where they are difficult to remove. The DuPage River Salt Creek Workgroup (DRSCW) recently completed a study to document practices already in place, estimate potential phosphorus removal, and make recommendations on ways to further reduce phosphorus inputs. Learn more about The Watersheds We Call Home from Alex Handel and our It’s Our Fox River Day on our blog.
This webinar is sponsored by: