Which nutrient is of major concern due to its presence in most fertilizers and organic wastes?

Phosphorus is of major concern in aquatic systems primarily due to its role as a nutrient that can promote algal blooms. When fertilizers and organic wastes are applied to land, phosphates can runoff into nearby water bodies. This nutrient is often found in high concentrations in agricultural fertilizers and can lead to eutrophication when it enters aquatic ecosystems. Eutrophication is the process by which water bodies become overly enriched with minerals and nutrients, leading to excessive growth of algae, which can deplete oxygen levels in the water and harm aquatic life.

While nitrogen is also a significant nutrient in fertilizers and can contribute to similar problems in aquatic environments, phosphorus is particularly problematic because it is often the limiting nutrient in freshwater systems—meaning that when phosphorus is available in excess, it directly leads to algae proliferation. Understanding the impact of phosphorus from fertilizers and organic wastes is crucial for managing and protecting water quality in Michigan's lakes and rivers.