What impact does untreated stormwater have on ecosystems?

Untreated stormwater can have significant negative impacts on ecosystems, particularly aquatic environments. When rainwater runs over surfaces such as roads, parking lots, and agricultural fields, it collects a variety of pollutants, including oils, heavy metals, pesticides, and nutrients like nitrogen and phosphorus.

When this stormwater enters rivers, lakes, and streams without treatment, it introduces these harmful substances into the water bodies. This can lead to a decrease in water quality, which can be detrimental to aquatic life. For example, high levels of nutrients from fertilizers can trigger algal blooms, which deplete oxygen in the water and create "dead zones" where fish and other aquatic organisms cannot survive. Furthermore, pollutants can directly harm fish, amphibians, and plant life by disrupting their habitats, reproductive systems, and overall health.

By recognizing the detrimental impact of untreated stormwater on ecosystems, it becomes clear that effective stormwater management is vital for protecting water quality and maintaining biodiversity.