May 08
Fertilizers can run off into streams and lakes, so, word to the wise—less is more. Listen up: You might think the more fertilizer on your garden, the better—but using too much may do more harm than good when it comes to clean water. This is in large part because nitrate in fertilizer can leach into water, …
Permanent link to this article: http://www.currentcast.org/stormwater-management/fertilizer-leaks-pollution/
May 07
On the lookout for invasive plants: When a new plant moves into a lake or stream, take note – it could be cause for concern. Sandra Keppner with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service says that rapidly spreading invasive plants like water chestnut and hydrilla are causing big problems for New York waters. “We see …
Permanent link to this article: http://www.currentcast.org/biodiversity/holding-the-invaders-at-bay/
May 06
Pulling Phragmites in Georgian Bay . . . Learn more: Wetlands in Ontario’s Georgian Bay are threatened by an invasive grass called phragmites that outcompetes many native species. “It actually can grow to about 18 feet tall and displace native plants from their aquatic habitat,” explains David Sweetnam of the nonprofit Georgian Bay Forever. He …
Permanent link to this article: http://www.currentcast.org/restoration-and-conservation-initiatives/invasive-grass-threatens-georgian-bay/
May 05
Sea-faring ships, ballast water, and invasive species . . . Learn more: Ships use water as ballast to add weight and increase their stability. But that water can bring invasive species into the Great Lakes from elsewhere. “They’re bringing in all the stuff that’s in the water. So zooplankton, fish, plants, bacteria, diseases, all those …
Permanent link to this article: http://www.currentcast.org/invasive-species/see-sea-species-in-the-sea-not-the-lakes/
May 04
A growing network of rain gardens . . . Learn more: A group of non-profits are mobilizing volunteers to install rain gardens in residential neighborhoods in Detroit. These specially designed gardens trap water before it can overwhelm the sewer system, and keep it from running across surfaces where it could pick up pollution and carry it …
Permanent link to this article: http://www.currentcast.org/stormwater-management/detroit-wants-you-to-catch-some-rain/
