Certified Professional Horticulturist (CPH) Practice Exam

Which nutrient's runoff is of the greatest concern in Maryland?

1. Nitrogen

2. Carbon

3. Potassium

4. Phosphorus

The correct answer is: Phosphorus

The nutrient runoff that is of the greatest concern in Maryland is phosphorus. This is primarily due to its significant impact on water quality in the Chesapeake Bay, a vital ecosystem in the region. Phosphorus is a key contributor to eutrophication, which leads to algal blooms that deplete oxygen in the water, harming aquatic life and disrupting the overall ecological balance. In Maryland, agricultural activities, urban runoff, and wastewater discharge can lead to elevated levels of phosphorus being washed into rivers and streams. Once in the waterways, phosphorus can promote excessive growth of algae, particularly during warmer months when sunlight and temperatures are conducive to algal proliferation. The concern over phosphorus is heightened in areas like Maryland that are closely linked to sensitive environments such as the Chesapeake Bay. Efforts to manage and reduce phosphorus runoff through agricultural best management practices, urban planning, and wastewater treatment improvements are crucial to protecting water quality and maintaining the health of this important ecosystem.