Eutrophication

Abstract

Nutrient enrichment of lakes and reservoirs can cause a number of changes to the aquatic ecosystem - this is known as eutrophication. The article considers whether "prevention' or "cure' is the best solution to this common problem. The control of eutrophication includes both preventative and corrective techniques. Prevention is a more difficult, expensive and long-term approach. Its eventual success may be determined by our ability to control or limit non-point sources of nutrients. Most of the emphasis on controlling eutrophication has therefore focused on in-lake treatment methods, which are curative rather than preventative. These range from expensive dredging to short-term and quickly effective chemical dosing. -from Author