What would likely be a consequence of improperly managed stormwater runoff?

• A. Increased water treatment costs
• B. Decreased urban development
• C. Reduction in ecosystem biodiversity
• D. Public health improvement

Answer: (C)

Improperly managed stormwater runoff can lead to significant environmental impacts, one of which is the reduction in ecosystem biodiversity. When stormwater is not properly controlled, it can carry pollutants such as sediments, nutrients, and chemicals directly into waterways. This pollution can degrade water quality and disrupt aquatic habitats, leading to a decline in both plant and animal populations.

A reduction in biodiversity can have cascading effects on local ecosystems, as it reduces the resilience of the ecosystem to changes and can diminish the availability of ecosystem services such as pollination, water filtration, and habitat provision. Healthy ecosystems with diverse species are better able to withstand and recover from environmental stressors. The loss of biodiversity can also harm species that rely on certain environments or other species for survival, further destabilizing the ecosystem.

Understanding the consequences of stormwater runoff highlights the importance of implementing effective management strategies to protect both water quality and ecosystem health.