ENSC 162: The Consequences of Human Nature on Mother Nature: The Effects of Oil from Infrastructure on Wildflowers

In this presentation, the effects of oil runoff from highway infrastructure on surrounding wildflowers are explored. Oil runoff is considered a type of nonpoint source pollution. The exact origin of non point source pollution cannot be determined, as it includes a variety of materials such as pesticides, heavy metal, plastic waste, and oil. Most runoff pollution comes from impervious surfaces, for example sidewalks or highways. Virginia’s rates of urbanization are increasing, as are the areas in which impervious surfaces are placed. The more impervious surfaces, the more the environment is exposed to runoff pollution. However, the impact can be dampened by the existence of wildflowers next to highways. Wildflowers are able to successfully trap runoff pollutants in the soil in which they are planted, as well as in their stems and leaves. They are more popular, efficient, and cost beneficial than grass swales or turfgrass, as they require little to no maintenance after planting.