The use of synthetic fertilizers throughout the years has caused an overabundance of toxic chemicals to enter our oceans and rivers. The runoff water and soil from farmlands and residential properties that use these chemicals are beginning to enter the drinking water supply causing a wide variety of health problems. Researchers have found that when the warm water of the Mississippi river combines with the cold water from the Atchafalaya river the differences in the water temperatures creates an atmosphere were algae grows, then dies and decomposes. This decomposition of toxic algal blooms and the over enrichment of the environment in the water leads to the death of shrimp, shellfish, fish, sea grasses, and coral reefs. A report from the United Nations states that inappropriate irrigation and low stream water has increased the amount of saline in the freshwater supply. This increase of saline has lead to an inability of agricultural land to sustain important crops.

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