The Impact of Fertilizer Runoff on the Gulf of Mexico Ecosystem

The video discusses the Gulf of Mexico's Dead Zone, an area of low oxygen that harms marine life. It explains how agricultural and urban runoff lead to excessive nutrients in the water, causing algal blooms and hypoxia. This impacts marine ecosystems and fisheries, threatening the economy and culture of Gulf communities. The video also highlights the role of farming practices in nutrient runoff and the need for collaboration between farmers and fishermen to address the issue.

What is the size of the 2019 Gulf of Mexico Dead Zone?

• 5,000 square miles

• 6,952 square miles

• 8,000 square miles

• 10,000 square miles

What is a primary cause of the Gulf of Mexico Dead Zone?

• Oil spills

• Agricultural and urban runoff

• Climate change

• Overfishing

What happens to marine life in hypoxic conditions?

• They thrive

• They migrate to other areas

• They become more active

• They reproduce more

How much fertilizer was used on the one-acre farm in Iowa?

• 100 pounds

• 130 pounds

• 150 pounds

• 200 pounds

What river does the runoff from Iowa farms eventually enter?

• Missouri River

• Ohio River

• Colorado River

• Iowa River

What is the main nutrient causing algal blooms in the Gulf?

• Magnesium

• Calcium

• Phosphate

• Potassium

What is the cultural significance of shrimp fishing in the Gulf Coast?

• It is only for local consumption

• It is a new industry

• It is a minor activity

• It is as important as corn harvest in the Midwest

What is the main message shrimp fishermen are conveying to Iowa farmers?

• To switch to organic farming

• To reduce fertilizer use

• To stop farming altogether

• To increase fertilizer use

What is the consequence of excessive nutrient runoff into the Gulf?

• More coral reefs

• Cleaner water

• Decreased oxygen levels

• Increased fish population

What is the main environmental problem being passed down to Gulf communities?

• Air pollution

• Water pollution

• Deforestation

• Soil erosion