Why is nitrogen loading a concern to all property owners in Falmouth?
Nitrogen is the most important nutrient in Falmouth because increased nitrogen is tightly aligned to greater growth of algae in estuaries. Excess nitrogen in Falmouth’s coastal ponds and estuaries is leading to serious degradation that ultimately will result in “dead zones”. Excessive nitrogen increases growth of phytoplankton and large mats of “macroalgae” that covers the bottom and smothers eelgrass beds. When the algae decomposes, it depletes oxygen supplies, kills or drives away aquatic life and leads to foul smells in warm weather. Healthy estuaries are one important reason why people choose to live in or visit Falmouth. With over 65 miles of shoreline, Falmouth bays and ponds represent an unprecedented opportunity to swim, fish, shellfish, boat and walk in and around natural environments. Ultimately, nitrogen overloading will affect the quality of life and real estate values in Falmouth. As property values around the ponds decrease, taxes generated decrease with a result that the
