Northeastern Waterways More Polluted After Wet Year

An analysis from the University of Rhode Island found that 2023’s wet weather led to increased water pollution in Northeastern bodies of water. According to Elizabeth Heron, director of the URI Watershed Watch program, “Bacteria counts were higher in many of our rivers and ponds, as well as coastal waters.”

One problem is an invasive bloom called hydrilla that stimulates the growth of toxic blue green algae. “Hydrilla forms dense mats at the water’s surface, changes pH, removes oxygen, restricts native plant growth, blocks nutrients for aquatic animals, and hinders irrigation, recreation and water flow.” Hydrilla, which comes from warmer climates, is thriving in the Northeast in part due to a warming climate.