Algae is Taking Over Our Waters, here are 3 Ways to stop it!

Agrotica > Crop Management  > Algae is Taking Over Our Waters, here are 3 Ways to stop it!

Algae is Taking Over Our Waters, here are 3 Ways to stop it!

You may have heard of “eutrophication,” a term that sounds more complicated than it really is. It simply means “well fed,” and it was first introduced by German botanist Weber in 1907. In Lebanon, this process is causing serious environmental issues, especially in the Karaoun Reservoir and our coastal waters. Let’s break down what eutrophication is, why it’s a problem, and how we can tackle it.

What Is Eutrophication?

Eutrophication happens when excess nutrients, like phosphorus and nitrogen, enter our water bodies from sources such as agricultural runoff, sewage, and industrial waste. These nutrients act like a superfood for algae, leading to rapid and dense algae growth, known as algal blooms. As a result, clear waters turn into murky, greenish pools, which disrupts the entire aquatic ecosystem.

When algae die, they’re decomposed by bacteria that consume oxygen in the process. This creates “dead zones” where marine life can’t survive due to low oxygen levels. Algal blooms also block sunlight, which is crucial for underwater plants that support biodiversity. Some algae even produce toxins that are harmful to both aquatic life and humans, posing significant health risks.

How Agriculture Contributes

Agriculture plays a big role in this problem. When fertilizers are not used properly, excess nutrients wash off the fields during rain or irrigation and flow into water bodies. Poor soil management, like over-tilling and growing the same crops repeatedly, worsens the issue by allowing more nutrients to run off into waterways. Additionally, pesticides and herbicides from farms degrade water quality and harm aquatic organisms.

Three Ways to Combat Eutrophication

  1. Manage Nutrients Wisely: By controlling how and when fertilizers are applied, we can reduce the amount of excess nitrogen and phosphorus entering our water bodies. This helps prevent algal blooms before they start.
  2. Use Natural Controls: Implementing biomanipulation strategies—using natural processes and organisms to manage algae—can help restore balance to the ecosystem and promote healthier habitats.
  3. Increase Oxygen Levels: Techniques to boost oxygen levels in the water can support diverse aquatic life and prevent hypoxic conditions, helping maintain a vibrant and balanced ecosystem.

Fighting eutrophication requires a combined effort. By practicing sustainable agriculture, improving soil management, and using methods to enhance water quality, we can reduce harmful algal blooms and protect our aquatic ecosystems. Together, we can ensure cleaner, healthier waters for future generations.

by Eng. Rana Slim, Agricultural Engineering graduate from the Saint Joseph University

Maryse Bou Zeid

mbouzeid@debbaneagri.com

No Comments

Post a Comment

Comment
Name
Email
Website