The Nature Conservancy is using science, data, and models to determine which areas of the river are most affected by nutrients, specifically nitrogen and phosphorus. Knowing what areas are in the best shape will help guide future conservation efforts on the Cape Fear. 

 

As you can see on the map, most nutrients come from the upper part of the Cape Fear River. When these nutrients enter the river they are transported downstream, degrading plants and wildlife by causing algal blooms as they move to the estuary. This means nutrient loading upstream adds to the pollution already occurring in lower parts of the river. 

 

Based on what we know about the effects of these pollutants on the health of humans, habitat, and migratory fish, we need to limit nutrients flowing into the river by introducing better management practices. This is a community effort that involves everyone who lives and depends on the river.