What is a common indicator of water quality issues in stormwater runoff?

Increased turbidity levels serve as a common indicator of water quality issues in stormwater runoff. Turbidity refers to the cloudiness or haziness of water caused by a high concentration of suspended solids, such as silt, clay, and organic matter. When stormwater flows over various surfaces, it can pick up these particulates, especially in urban areas where there is a lack of vegetation and increased impervious surfaces.

Elevated turbidity can signal various environmental concerns, including the presence of pollutants, which can harm aquatic habitats and organisms. High turbidity can reduce light penetration, thus affecting photosynthesis in aquatic plants and disrupting the overall ecosystem. Furthermore, it can transport harmful substances or pathogens that settle in sediment, leading to more significant water quality degradation.

In contrast, high levels of dissolved oxygen usually indicate good water quality and a healthy ecosystem, low nutrient concentrations suggest a lack of fertilizers and contaminants, and stable pH levels typically show that water chemistry is balanced, which is not indicative of pollution. Therefore, increased turbidity is a relevant marker for identifying potential issues in stormwater management and water quality.