Cape residents grossed out by sewage-polluted waterways, but downright nauseated by the price tag of a potential fix

Decades of nitrogen pollution have fueled nasty-looking and foul-smelling algae blooms along the Cape's coast. Scientists say septic systems are to blame.

Now, new state rules aimed at combating the problem are pushing municipalities to improve their sewage infrastructure fast. If that fails, it could force homeowners to (more or less literally) flush tens of thousands of dollars into their toilets.

WBUR correspondent Barbara Moran joins us.