Sediment and nutrients brought by storm water runoff can have a significant impact on a lake or pond ecosystem.
Sediment is made up of small particles of rock, soil, and other materials that are suspended in water. When sediment is introduced into a lake or pond, it can cause a number of issues. For example, it can reduce the amount of light that reaches the bottom of the water body, which can negatively impact the growth of aquatic plants. It can also clog the gills of fish and other aquatic organisms, making it difficult for them to breathe.
Similarly, nutrients brought by storm water runoff, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, can also have a negative impact on a lake or pond ecosystem. These nutrients can stimulate the growth of algae and other aquatic plants, leading to an increase in the amount of vegetation in the water body. This can result in an overabundance of algae, which can lead to a process called eutrophication. During eutrophication, the excess nutrients lead to an overproduction of algae, which can eventually die and decompose, consuming oxygen in the process. This can lead to a decrease in the amount of oxygen available for other aquatic organisms, which can have negative impacts on their health and survival.
Overall, the impact of sediment and nutrients brought by storm water runoff on a lake or pond ecosystem can be significant, and it is important to take steps to prevent or minimize these impacts in order to protect these important ecosystems.