What is one of the main concerns with sediment runoff?

Sediment runoff is a significant environmental issue primarily because it negatively impacts water quality and aquatic habitats. When sediment washes off land surfaces, it carries with it nutrients, pollutants, and pathogens that can degrade the water quality of lakes, rivers, and streams. This can lead to problems such as algal blooms, which deplete oxygen and harm fish and other aquatic organisms. Additionally, excessive sediment can smother aquatic habitats, such as coral reefs and riverbeds, disrupting the natural ecosystem and adversely affecting the organisms that rely on these habitats for survival. Therefore, monitoring and controlling sediment runoff is essential for protecting water quality and maintaining healthy aquatic ecosystems.