Question

How do excessive fertilizers reach the water bodies and pollute them ?

Answer 1

Fertilizers and pesticides are among the many common stormwater pollutants that can degrade water quality. Though fertilizers contain chemicals that are good for lawns and plants when used properly, excessive amounts applied to lawns and gardens wash off and pollute streams.

Fertilizers are made of nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus. When it rains, these nutrients are carried by storm-water into the nearest stream, river, or other water body. Too many nutrients in water can cause algae to grow, which uses up the oxygen in the water. Low levels of oxygen in water can hurt aquatic wildlife and even lead to fish kills.