Sam Ziemba: Outside Reading 4 (3/8/23)

   https://doi.org/10.3390/w13111592 

  This study sought to determine how precipitation and land use affects water quality along the James River. We know that deforestation and water degradation are both environmental issues, but how do the 2 relate? Researchers from Mississippi State University used data on land development and river health from 1986 through 2018 to examine the tie between deforestation and water quality. The researchers found that there is poorer water quality in areas along the river where there has been increased development and forest degradation. On the contrary, where we have preserved more trees, there was better water quality; therefore, this study shows a strong correlation between forest preservation and river health. Using satellite imagery and GIS, the researchers traced the locations of development and forestation and compared the water quality of those areas. “Water quality” in this study is judged based on total suspended solids (sediments), total nitrogen, and total phosphorous measured in the water. The lower the amounts of these variables present, the higher the water quality. Unlike in humans, where nutrients have a positive connotation, excessive nutrients in the river are detrimental to water health. When there is precipitation, nitrogen and phosphorus from pesticides and fertilizers wash off the ground and into the river. This excess of nitrogen and phosphorous is known to cause algal blooms. Algal blooms not only make the water unsafe for humans, but can also be toxic for fish, birds, and mammals. Forested areas act as a barrier between these chemicals and the river. Without trees, there is nothing to hinder runoff from reaching the river when there is precipitation. Thus, forested areas have lower amounts of sediments, nitrogen, and phosphorus present in the water. Scientists recognize this role of trees and emphasize the importance of forest preservation along the river. Since the James River is a part of the Chesapeake Bay watershed, land utilization should be carried out with caution because it has the potential to affect downstream waters and their ecosystems.