There are many kinds and sources of water pollution. In today's society it is pretty much impossible to keep our drains, streams, rivers and lakes from becoming polluted. When we add material to our water in order to make it suitable for a certain use, we may be making it unsuitable for another.
Economic factors are taken into consideration when dealing with our water system and considering what to leave in, and what to take out. When it comes down to whether or not to remove organic matter, which is biodegradable, it may not be justified. However, if there were chemicals and toxins in the water that could pose a threat to humans, it certainly would be justifiable (Enger/Smith 294).
Nonpoint source pollution is the biggest source of water pollution. It is the reason why 40% of our surveyed rivers, lakes, and estuaries are not clean enough for fishing or swimming. It contributes to the contamination of rivers, including the Russian River, lakes, streams, coastal waters, and even our drinking water that comes from deep below the ground. Storm-water runoff and melting snow are nonpoint source pollutants. Runoff dissolves materials and either carries them away over everything in its path, or seeps into the ground, affecting the ground water. Some of the materials that are picked up and carried away through runoff include:
Nutrients, sediment, pesticides, pathogens (bacteria and viruses), oil, grease, toxic chemicals, and heavy metals are common nonpoint sources of pollutants. These pollutants come from agricultural land, construction sites and other areas that are disturbed by human intervention (EPA 1).
Another source of nonpoint source pollution is our storm drains. Storm drains flow directly into the Russian River and its tributaries. Some of the pollutants that go into the storm drains include:
These pollutants have harmful effects on wildlife in and along the Russian River, our water supply, and fisheries. These pollutants destroy habitat, kill fish and pollute our drinking water (EPA 2).
These are major concerns regarding the environment. State and federal government agencies and environmental groups are working together to control problems from nonpoint source pollution.
There are many ways in which people can help reduce the effects of water pollution in the Russian River and help preserve the environment. In helping to preserve the environment, the coho salmon and steelhead trout can be kept from becoming extinct. A few of the many ways to help stop water pollution in the Russian River include recycling oil, composting at home, using electric mowers, disposing of toxics properly, and becoming an environmental shopper (GREEN). Participating in environmental activities sponsored by community-based organizations is another way to help preserve the environment. It is also through education and public awareness that people will be able to make a difference. It is my hope, by way of this magazine, that people will become aware and concerned enough about our environment and all living existence to do something in helping to make a difference.