EPA Finds Widespread Nutrient Pollution in U.S. Lakes

A report by the Environmental Protection Agency released Thursday finds four in 10 lakes suffer from too much nitrogen and phosphorus. The national assessment is part of a series of aquatic surveys that outline the condition of U.S. water resources. The report says low concentrations of the herbicide atrazine were found in 30 percent of lakes along with a toxic algae in 39 percent of lakes, but below levels of concern. Atrazine is currently under review by the EPA in a slow and lengthy evaluation to consider limiting the herbicide’s use. Farm groups maintain atrazine’s effectiveness and safety is well documented with nearly 7,000 scientific studies conducted on the product. The EPA says nutrient pollution is one of America’s most widespread and costly environmental and public health challenges.