In regards to the article, “River problem identified next comes the fix,” (July 23), excess nitrogen creates summer algae blooms that depleted eel grass quantities and caused hypoxia (dissolved oxygen levels less than 3 mg. a liter) that makes the water of Little Narragansett Bay unsuitable for nursery grounds for fish and shellfish.

After reading the article, I considered the many farms that border the Pawcatuck River being the main culprits. But after discussing this problem with a biologist from the Mystic Aquarium, I had to redirect my verdict. The farms have been along the river for hundreds of years and their numbers have decreased in recent times, so clearly the excess nitrogen must be coming from the many suburban neighborhoods, businesses, hotels and highways that now line the river’s banks.

A full and hardy lawn gives a landscape a healthy appearance. However, to continue unrestricted fertilization by home or business owners and state and town agencies keeping their lawns, parks and grass ways vibrant, the problems with excess nitrogen in Little Narragansett Bay will surely continue.

We need to educate ourselves about the biological consequences from having the nicest lawn on the street. Is it really worth it?

Steven A. Birt

Groton