Pollution Levels Fall in the Bay

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) data show that nitrogen and phosphorus were below average in 2015, with nitrogen loads falling 25% between 2014 and 2015, and phosphorus dropping 44. In addition, sediment loads fell 59%.

According to the Chesapeake Bay Program, “experts attribute this drop in pollution loads to dry weather and below-normal river flow,” but it adds also points to research that shows how best management practices (BMPs), “including upgrading wastewater treatment plants, lowering vehicle and power plant emissions, and reducing runoff from farmland,” have played a beneficial role in lowering Bay nutrient and sediment levels, as well. More here.