What is a potential consequence of improper fertilizer application?

Improper fertilizer application can lead to nutrient leaching into water bodies, which is a significant environmental concern. When fertilizers are applied in excess or at inappropriate times, nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus can wash away with rain or irrigation water. This leaching process can result in high concentrations of these nutrients entering streams, rivers, and lakes, leading to pollution.

The influx of nutrients into these water bodies can cause a series of detrimental effects, such as algal blooms, which can deplete oxygen levels in the water and create dead zones where aquatic life cannot survive. Additionally, it can harm local ecosystems, disrupt food webs, and negatively impact water quality, making it unsafe for drinking and recreation.

In contrast, the other options suggest beneficial outcomes of proper fertilization practices. Enhanced soil fertility and improved local water quality are results of correctly managed fertilizer applications, while reduced soil erosion is linked to maintaining soil health through responsible land management. However, these benefits can only be achieved through appropriate practices, and the risk of nutrient leaching highlights the importance of careful fertilizer management.