Dead Zones
Human Dependence Project
Issues with Dead Zones
Dead Zones are bodies of water with no or low amounts of oxygen. This is caused by pollution. In Dead Zones, it is not possible for organisms to live in that environment.
Dead Zone's Negitive Effects on the Enviornment
Dead Zones suffocate organisms because of low amounts of oxygen. Over 296,000 fish were killed last year from Dead Zones in Mattox Creek, Virginia. Large amounts of Nitrogen and Phosphorus in the water cause a dangerous over growth of allege.
Where are most Dead Zones found?
Dead Zones have doubled in size each decade since the 1960's. They are mostly located off the east coast of the United States and Europe. In 2008, Dead Zones effected more than 245,000 square kilometers of the Ocean.
Wildlife affected by Dead Zones
Aquatic life is most affected by Dead Zones. When allege grows because of large amounts of Nitrogen and Oxygen, it dies and uses oxygen quickly when it is decomposing. The lack of oxygen in the water kills organism such as fish, eels, and crabs.
Dead Zones in League City?
Although there are no major Dead Zones in League City, the largest dead zone is very close to League City, The Gulf of Mexico. The Gulf of Mexico dead zone is around 7,000 square miles. It is caused by states in the U.S. that produce lots of runoff because of farming.
What causes Dead Zones?
People are not harmed by dead zones but they cause them. Dead Zones are mostly caused by runoff from the chemicals and fertilizer used on farms. Air pollution from cars and machinery also affect bodies of water.
Solutions for Dead Zones
-When fertilizing your lawn, used a small amount, or none at all
-Walk or Ride a bike when you're traveling short distances to prevent air pollution
-Have a yearly inspection on your septic system to look for leaks to prevent runoff
My Solution for Dead Zones
To prevent dead zones I think farmers should use an alterative fertilizer for their farms. This fertilizer should have no chemicals in it so the runoff will be harmless to the environment. My solution would not be able to be implemented now because there are no fertilizers that have harmless runoff to bodies of water.