How does land use impact water quality?

Land use significantly impacts water quality through the way it influences the quantity and quality of runoff. When land is used for agriculture, urban development, or industrial purposes, it alters natural processes. For instance, impervious surfaces such as roads and buildings increase runoff by preventing water from infiltrating into the ground. This runoff can carry pollutants like nutrients, sediments, and chemicals into nearby water bodies, thereby degrading water quality.

Additionally, agricultural practices may involve the use of fertilizers and pesticides, which can leach into waterways during rain events, enhancing nutrient loading and leading to problems like algal blooms. On the other hand, natural land use, such as forests or wetlands, typically enhances water filtration and provides habitat, contributing positively to water quality.

Understanding the ways different types of land use modify the landscape and influence hydrology is crucial for managing and protecting water quality in surface waters. This emphasizes the importance of thoughtful land-use planning and management practices to mitigate negative impacts on water resources.