1. Chesapeake Bay Problems

2. Bay Problems 1. Loss of Submerged Aquatic Vegetation
plants that are found on the bottom of the bay provide food and shelter
Plants are dying because of pollution and sedimentation.

4. Bay Problems 2. Nutrient Pollution
Fertilizer and manure add nitrogen and phosphorus to the Bay.
Fertilizer causes increased algae growth (algal bloom)

5. Algae blocks sunlight for bottom dwellers.
As the algae dies, it uses up oxygen.
Not enough oxygen left for animals.

6. Sources of Nutrients
Urban Areas
Farms
Wastewater treatment plants

7. Bay Problems
3. Toxins
Harmful chemicals can be added to the bay from industries, roads, homes.
Examples: pesticides, herbicides, paint removers

8. Pollution Sources
Point Sources- pollutant comes from a specific source that can be identified (ex-factory)

9. Non-point Sources- pollutants come from a large region and a specific site can’t be identified (ex- farm runoff or sediment)

10. Bay Problems 4. Exotic Species
Some plants and animals were accidentally introduced into the Bay (ex. Zebra mussel)
No natural predators so there are too many of them.