Impact of Soil Erosion to Quality of Water

Unit 1 Essay
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Unit 1 Essay
Soil erosion negatively impacts the quality of receiving waters. The sediments from the soil erosion pollute the water bodies by increasing the levels of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). The increased N and P levels often occur through runoff waters, resulting in excessive growth of algae (Carpenter, 2005). The quality of the water drops because the algae deplete or lower dissolved oxygen levels. To address the problem, it is essential to explore the value of dissolved oxygen in wastewater discharge.
Wastewater treatment plants strive to eliminate pollutants that can cause low dissolved oxygen (DO) profile. Before wastewater discharge, DO is added in the aeration basin to improve the oxidation process (Harja et al., 2016). The process provides oxygen to aerobic microorganisms so that organic waste is turned into inorganic byproducts. Ensuring a high concentration of DO downstream the wastewater discharge is essential to avoid eutrophication (Harja et al., 2016). Consequently, understanding the eutrophication of lakes explains the importance of improving DO.
Eutrophication of lakes is a serious global problem. While eutrophication does occur naturally, human activities have intensified the process (Carpenter, 2005). Practices such as agriculture, use of fertilizers, industries, or sewage contain high levels of nutrients that can end up in the lake through runoffs or erosion (Carpenter, 2005). The lake becomes excessively supplemented with minerals and nutrients, resulting in excessive algae growth. The algae bloom depletes oxygen from the lake lowering the water quality. Eutrophication is considered a serious global problem that contributes to water pollution. Additionally, human activities can cause other forms of pollution.
Human activities contribute to almost all groundwater pollution. Human-made products such as gasoline, chemicals, and oil can seep through the ground and eventually become...