New study reveals hidden nutrient runoff threat in agricultural areas
The study looked at how different types of water flow affect nutrient runoff in agricultural areas. They found that interflow and baseflow, which make up 46% of the water flow, are important pathways for nutrients like nitrate. These nutrients can impact water quality and need to be managed carefully, possibly with vegetation. Reservoirs can help capture nutrients, but they are most effective for surface runoff pollutants.