Clean brackish water, created by the mixing of clean fresh water and salt water, is important to the health of the estuary.
Stormwater runoff however, can create problems.
What is Stormwater Runoff?
It is excess rain that flows over land, down streets and through storm drains into the estuary.
Why is it a problem?
Because water cannot soak into the ground, paved surfaces create more runoff, make runoff move faster and with greater force, and reduce infiltration to the aquifer. Stormwater runoff can carry fertilizers, animal waste, pesticides and dirt from pastures and lawns into the estuary. It can also carry petroleum and antifreeze residue from parking lots and roads. All these materials, and many others, can pollute the estuary.
The U. S. Environmental Protection Agency has identified stormwater runoff as the number one pollution source for our nation's waters.
Manatee View Center
Apollo Beach, Fl
TECO
WATERMATTERS.ORG 1-800-423-1476
Alafia River Basin Board
Hillsborough River Basin Board
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