"Addressing Cape Cod's Billion-Dollar Water Cleanup Challenge"

Cape Cod is facing worsening water pollution due to algal blooms caused by septic systems leaching nitrogen and phosphorus into the groundwater, leading to low-oxygen dead zones in coastal bays and ponds. The cleanup efforts are estimated to cost billions, with towns like Barnstable planning to switch to sewage pipes and upgrade treatment plants, while some residents are opting for new improved septic systems designed to remove nitrogen. The high costs and disruptive construction pose significant challenges, but the urgency to preserve the region's ecosystems, economies, and property values is driving communities to seek solutions before it's too late.