Nutrient Pollution
Nutrient water pollution is one of the most widespread and challenging environmental problems faced by our nation. When too many nutrients, mainly nitrogen and phosphorus, enter our waterbodies they cause excessive algal growth. Excess algae can reduce or deplete dissolved oxygen available to aquatic life and, in many instances, produce toxins that can harm people, animals, and aquatic life.
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Basic Information
Nutrient pollution occurs when excess nitrogen and phosphorus from agriculture, storm and wastewater facilities, use of fossil fuels, and daily domestic activities enter our waterways impacting human and environmental health and our economy.
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What You Can Do
We can all take actions to reduce nutrient pollution through daily choices we make around the house, yard, our communities, and classrooms.
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EPA’s Efforts to Reduce Nutrient Pollution
The EPA continues to work diligently to reduce nutrient pollution in our nation’s waterbodies.
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Data and Tools to Assist States, Tribes, & Territories
The EPA has collected data and develop tools to better understand, manage, and reduce nutrient pollution in surface and source waters.
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Learn about Numeric Nutrient Criteria
Water quality criteria for nitrogen and phosphorus help to protect water bodies and restore those that are impaired by nutrient pollution.
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State Info, Research, Reports & Other Resources
The EPA supports and facilitates access to state progress via a StoryMap, basic and applied research, publications, and resources to help manage nutrient pollution in our nation’s waters.