SOURCES OF WATER CONTAMINATION

As water moves through the hydrologic cycle, its quality is affected by both natural processes and the action of humans. Water is contaminated by runoff from stormwater or snow melt, by seepage through the soil, and by atmospheric transport.

Contaminents enter water supplies through landfills; deteriorating, underground storage tanks; industrial waste; agricultural fertilizers and pesticides; animal feedlots; highway de-icer runnoff; faulty septic tanks; hazardous waste sites; and leaching from pipes, solder and pipe joints.

Individuals and their families also contribute to the pollution of water. Car oil and solvents are dumped on the ground. Excess lawn fertilizer runs off into storm sewers. Paint thinnner and chemicals are flushed down the drain. People forget that water is continuously recycled and that anything added or put into the water supply or ground can potentially end up back in our drinking water.