What is a likely consequence of livestock accessing the shoreline?

Livestock accessing the shoreline can significantly impact water quality and ecosystem health, which makes increased nutrient runoff a likely consequence. When animals have direct access to the shore, they may defecate and urinate, leading to excess nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus entering the water. These nutrients can stimulate algal blooms, deplete oxygen levels in the water, and ultimately harm aquatic life.

The presence of livestock can also damage vegetation along the shoreline, which plays a critical role in filtering water and preventing erosion. When plants are removed or degraded, their ability to absorb and utilize these nutrients diminishes, exacerbating the issue of nutrient runoff. This chain reaction can result in further ecological imbalances and increased pollution in adjacent water bodies. Therefore, the overall impact of livestock on shoreline environments is primarily negative, especially regarding nutrient runoff.