What Pollutants Affect Our Local Water?

Sometimes our local rivers, streams and lakes are affected by runoff containing untreated sewage and industrial waste. Water pollution comes from overflowing sewage systems, runoff from roads, lawns, farms, and industrial sites. Sources of drinking water and public beaches become polluted when sewer system overflows occur upstream. Toxic chemicals from industrial waste, such as lead, arsenic and perchlorate, are found in drinking water.

Sewage

• During heavy rains, sewage systems can overflow and release sewage and industrial waste. Untreated or partially treated sewage wastewater contains human waste and chemicals. Untreated sewage contains bacteria and pathogens. People can get sick from drinking water contaminated by harmful bacteria.

Toxic Chemicals

• Perchlorate, a rocket fuel, has been found in tap water in many cities. Perchlorate is a carcinogen that is a serious threat to human health and our clean water resources. Arsenic has also been found in tap water. It may cause birth defects, cancer and reproductive problems.

Pesticides

• Pesticides are chemicals that are used in farming to kill insects and weeds. When pesticides get into ground water that is used for drinking water, they may cause health problems. Pesticides can get into ground water after they are applied to the crops from improper disposal, seepage and accidental spills. Pesticides can seep down into aquifers under the crop fields.

Fertilizers

• Fertilizers such as phosphate pollute lakes and streams. Fertilizers are used for lawns and gardens and are a major source of phosphates in the water. Fertilizers end up on roads, driveways and sideways. When it rains, the fertilizer gets washed into storm drains and ends up in lakes and rivers. The high phosphate levels can cause too much algae and water weeds to grow in lakes and rivers.