First-ever NMFS recreational fisheries workshop

The acidification of rain and snow results primarily by the burning of fossil fuels releasing sulfate and nitrate pollutants into the atmosphere. The effects of acid rain are discussed in relation to aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. These effects include the elimination of fish populations inhabiting acidified waters and the decline of populations of aquatic invertebrates. In addition, acid rain increases the leaching of nutrients from plant foliage and soils; causes foliage injury, allowing plant diseases; influences plant growth; and inhibits nitrogen-fixing activities of legumes.