These bacteria use up the available oxygen in the water. The impact on aquatic life is adverse. Many aquatic animals, that need the oxygen to live, suffocate. Hence, the large-scale fish kills and the overall poor water quality. Excess nutrients may also stimulate the growth of potentially harmful toxic algae.
Solutions are possible . . .
The quality of the Neuse has affected our lives greatly. Recent water quality problems have forced us to restrict our activities and treat this once great gift from nature with caution. We deserve better. We deserve to be able not only to enjoy the Neuse, but to reap the practical water-use benefits as well. We deserve cleaner water.