What is the leading pollutant identified in North Carolina?

Sediment is identified as the leading pollutant in North Carolina primarily due to its significant impact on water quality and aquatic ecosystems. When soil particles are washed into rivers and streams, they can cloud the water, reducing light penetration essential for aquatic plants. This sediment can also transport other pollutants like nutrients and heavy metals, exacerbating water quality issues.

Improper land-use practices, such as agriculture and urban development, contribute to increased erosion and sediment runoff into waterways. This not only affects the clarity and quality of water but can also damage fish habitats and disrupt the food chain in aquatic environments. Addressing sediment pollution is essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems and ensuring clean water for both human use and wildlife. Understanding this issue is crucial for effective environmental management and conservation efforts within the state.

In contrast, while nutrients, plastic, and heavy metals are indeed environmental concerns, they do not rank as the leading pollutant in the context of North Carolina's water quality issues.