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Nonpoint water pollution cannot be connected to one specific source. It results from the everyday activities of people who work, live and recreate in the watershed. Nonpoint pollution is different from 'point' sources of water pollution --sewer pipes or industrials waste outlets -- because 'nonpoint' sources are difficult to identify and control.
Nonpoint sources are associated with agricultural practices, on-site sewage disposal systems, vehicles, boats, stormwater, construction techniques, and other activities. The presence of nonpoint source pollution is indicated by measures of water quality. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that more than half of all water pollution nationwide comes from nonpoint sources.
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Origins
The origins of nonpoint source pollution are diverse and widespread. Some of the primary sources in urban environments are garden and lawn fertilizers and chemicals, sediment run-off, faulty septic systems, recreational boat waste, pet waste, car washes, agricultural run-off, and spilled or improperly discarded toxins and automobile wastes.
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Sediment
Sediment, essentially soil particles, is detrimental to aquatic life. Sediment, after being washed into lakes, rivers, and streams, clouds the water, inhibiting the growth of plants and animals. Sediments cover aquatic plants, destroy habitat for insects, suffocate fish eggs, and coat fish gills.
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Garden and Lawn Care
In garden and lawn care, fertilizers and pesticides must be used carefully. Fertilizer contains phosphorus and nitrogen which stimulates algae growth in aquatic communities. Excess algae growth depletes the amount of sunshine available to underwater plants. Some types of algae excrete toxins that can kill fish, wildlife, and pets. Fertilizers and pesticides can seep into ground water and contaminate drinking water for everyone.
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Toxins
Toxins and automobile waste are poisonous even in small doses. Pesticides, solvents, preservatives, failing septic tanks, paint, motor oil, antifreeze, and household cleaners and metals (especially lead and mercury) are harmful to plants and animals. Motor oil and grease are hydrocarbon compounds which can kill aquatic life.
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Boaters
Spilled boat fuel, paint chips, and discarded trash can foul aquatic habitats and kill fish and wildlife. Boaters can do their part by designating a storage place for trash, using sewage pumpout stations, and preventing fuel overflows. When repainting, use a drop cloth to collect spills, drips and paint chips.
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How to Reduce Nonpoint Pollution
Small changes in our habits can improve water quality in rivers, lakes and Puget Sound.
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Landscaping
Landscaping has a major effect on reducing run-off throughout watersheds. It can influence the volume, velocity, and timing of surface water run-off from private lands.
- Leave a plant buffer along stream banks and shorelines to avoid excessive run-off and erosion. A plant buffer is a zone of deep-rooted plant growth separating waterways from land. If this does not occur naturally, plant native trees and shrubs.
- Do not dispose of lawn clippings and yard debris in or near waterways or wetlands. They add extra nutrients to the water causing excessive algae blooms. Save yard debris for mulching or compost .
- Plant native plants. They are resistant to pests and acclimated to local growing conditions.
- Use terraces and plant steep slopes horizontally to prevent erosion.
- Avoid chemical pesticides and fertilizers. Remove weeds by hand. If you must use chemicals, follow directions exactly. More is not better.
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Toxins
Being conscious of dangerous toxins can help us to keep them out of the water.
- Maintain vehicles and fix leaks.
- Recycle oil, antifreeze , and household hazardous waste at collection centers.
- Cover solid wastes contaminated with oil or grease to prevent pollutants from being washed away by the rain.
- Use pesticides correctly and sparingly.
- Use water-based latex paints. To discard, let unused portions evaporate. Leave dried-out cans uncapped and discard in garbage. Dispose of oil-based paints at household hazardous waste collection centers.
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A few more tips:
- Have your septic system inspected and the tank pumped every 3 to 5 years.
- Don't allow pet or animal waste to wash from your property. Fence livestock away from waterways.
- Wash your car over the grass where detergents and dirt are absorbed.
- Never pour wastes down storm drains.
- Start using alternatives to store-bought chemicals.
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