In a changing climate, cities worsen water quality

New research by the Baltimore Ecosystem Study, a long-term project funded by the National Science Foundation, shows that climate fluctuations may cause increased urban stormwater runoff pollution to nearby streams, lakes and estuaries. As global warming worsens, changing weather patterns are expected to lead to dry spells followed by intense rains. This study shows that urban nitrate pollution loads may increase in this scenario, enhancing the need for improved site design and on-site stormwater management in growing urban areas.