WATER POLLUTION: HELP KEEP STREAMS, RIVERS, AND OCEANS CLEAN
WATER POLLUTION: HELP KEEP STREAMS, RIVERS, AND OCEANS CLEAN Revision of October 2018 post Storm water is water and snow melt that does not soak into the ground. Storm water eventually runs off into the waterways. The flowing water picks up pollution off rooftops, paved areas and lawns. Pollution can include pesticides, fertilizers, motor oil, sediment, litter, and animal waste to name a few. The Problem Storm water and ditches drain into streams and rivers carrying the pollutants with it. Storm water polluted with fertilizers and excessive nitrogen damage the quality of rivers, lakes, and wetlands by introducing excessive nitrogen, which promotes algae overgrown and depletes oxygen. Pesticides, herbicides, and automotive toxins harm water quality and aquatic life. Additionally, animal waste has bacteria that when washed into the storm water can make rivers and lakes unsafe for swimming and fish consumption. The Solution When possible, buy household products labeled “nontoxic”. Clean