In certain regions, the main concern may be a lack of quality water, while in other regions, it may be protection of water supplies. Nurseries are increasingly aware of the effect effluent can have on the environment. Runoff from nurseries may contain nutrients, pesticides, and herbicides that can have an adverse impact on ecosystems. Increases in nutrients, such as phosphorus, can lead to algal blooms and eutrophication of water bodies, while pesticides and herbicides can disturb biotic communities. Capturing and recycling irrigation runoff can eliminate pollution of local water supplies by nurseries.
Water availability varies from region to region.
For example, in some parts of Texas, water is a limited commodity for growers. Surface water is not as readily available, so water is pumped from deep wells. If the quality of the water is not suitable, it must be treated before use on the plants. The water may be naturally high in salts or other minerals that are not desirable. In other regions such as Oregon, water supplies may be plentiful, but high volumes of runoff from nurseries may also occur.