News - 25/09/19

This year, there have been particularly high levels of growth of algae within the Medina Estuary and this has caused some issues for stakeholders and wildlife. High levels of nutrients in coastal waters cause the increase in algae growth and these nutrients come from a variety of sources, mainly from land-based activities. Some years also see higher levels of growth due to the weather conditions and levels of additional input. The highly complex nature of the coastal environment means there is not an easy solution to the problem but many actions are being undertaken throughout the Solent to try to address it. The Environment Agency has prepared a briefing paper (July 2019) to help explain the issue; the paper is available to view via the link below. 

• Environment Agency Briefing: Medina Estuary – Water Quality (nutrients – nitrogen)