Dead Zones by

State Problem

zfernandez27_1 — 2024-09-18 17:09:36 UTC

Dead zones are areas within oceans and lakes that are low on oxygen. In other words hypoxic. Organisms that require oxygen to live cannot survive in hypoxic areas. This is why they are given the name dead zones because few organisms are able to survive.

Significance of problem

zfernandez27_1 — 2024-09-18 17:09:53 UTC

Dead zones are a significant problem because of the harm it does to lakes, bays, and coastal bodies of water. All of these receive excess nutrients from upstream sources. Excess nitrogen and phosphorus cause overgrowth of algae which then consumes oxygen and blocks sunlight. Harmful algae produce chemicals and toxins that are a danger to human and aquatic life. All of this can then contaminate drinking water causing various illnesses for humans and animal life.

Solutions

zfernandez27_1 — 2024-09-18 17:10:00 UTC

Various solutions to reducing dead zones have been found. One reducing the input of nutrients into estuaries. This is the TDML known as Total Daily Maximum Load for nutrients. Similar to recommended portions on food labels this indicates a certain amount of pollutant that can enter bodies of water without causing dissolved oxygen levels.

Most severe deadzone

zfernandez27_1 — 2024-09-25 16:30:59 UTC

The majority of dead zones are located along the eastern coast of the U.S. Coastlines of the Baltic States, Japan, and the Korean peninsula. The Gulf of Mexico is one U.S. dead zone region.

Impact on Economy

zfernandez27_1 — 2024-09-25 16:33:28 UTC

NOAA also known as The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration estimates dead zones in the U.S. costing U.S. seafood and tourism industries 82 million dollars per year.

zfernandez27_1 — 2024-09-25 16:35:55 UTC

Works Cited

zfernandez27_1 — 2024-09-25 16:44:33 UTC

Personal Reflection

zfernandez27_1 — 2024-09-25 17:01:14 UTC