What is Non-Point Source (NPS) Pollution?
NPS pollution is the accumulation of pollutants over a broad area that are released into the water by runoff. The pollutants are created by a variety of diffuse sources and activities that occur over the land, rather than at a single, identifiable location.
What are types of NPS Pollutants?
- Nutrients, such as fertilizer and pesticides from lawns or farms
- Sediment, from erosion of unprotected lands
- Toxins, such as airborne chemicals, oils, and metals
- Salt, from irrigation and acid-mine drainage
- Pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses
- Organic Wastes, from manure and sewage
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How does Non-Point Source Pollution affect our waterways?
- NPS pollution degrades water quality! The pollutants that enter storm sewers go directly to our lakes, streams, and rivers, NOT to a water treatment plant.
- Eroded sediment clogs streambeds, destroying habitat for fish and aquatic insects.
- Excess Nitrogen and Phosphorous, from fertilizers and pesticides, cause extreme algae growth, fish kills, and groundwater contamination.
- Human sewage and animal waste add harmful bacteria, viruses, and excess nutrients that pollute the water.
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How to identify NPS Pollution problems...
- Eroded streambanks
- Sediment-filled streams, lakes, and pond
- Trash-filled storm sewers
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What can YOU do to prevent NPS Pollution?
- Apply lawn fertilizers and pesticides sparingly. Try not to apply right before a heavy rain.
- Plant native vegetation and trees along streambanks and in your yard to prevent soil erosion.
- Dispose of motor oil, antifreeze, and other chemicals properly. Don't hose it off into the street or dump into storm drains. (Because they eventually lead to our waterways!)
- Collect and recycle leaf litter and animal waste from your yard before it reaches storm drains.
- Maintain septic system by pumping septic tanks every three to five years.
- Do not litter!
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