Before the implementation of the Clean Water act in the 1970s, water pollution from industries and local municipalities directly into waterways was a major source of the country’s polluted water. Today it is the indirect impacts to water quality that contribute to contaminated water.
These indirect impacts are known as nonpoint sources (NPS). Contaminants enter groundwater via NPS pollution as chemicals travel along land with water runoff or are deposited in precipitation, atmospheric deposition, or through drainage and seepage into the earth.
Both business and individuals may contribute to nonpoint source pollution through activities such as oil leakage, animal waste, pesticide and fertilizer overuse, road salt, and sediment from erosion. Rain and snow easily pick up chemicals as they travel through storm drains or into streams and lakes, eventually reaching groundwater. Not only does this impact the amount and cost of cleanup activities, but it harms the ecosystems above and below ground too.
Fortunately, there are many ways to reduce NPS pollution and groups that can help.
How to reduce Nonpoint Source Pollution
For homeowners in Marion County, Indiana and across the country, improving your waste management and chemical use is key. Easy to implement solutions include:
- Take your household hazardous waste to a local drop off such as Indy DPW’s free ToxDrop
- Pick up pet waste
- Use fertilizers and pesticides according to directions and plant natives which require less watering and pest control
- Plant a rain garden to filter excess storm water
- Ensure your trash and recycling are secured in their pickup containers
- Get in touch with the Marion County Soil and Water Conversation District (MCSWCD) for advice on ditch and land management
For Marion County businesses in a drinking water protection area, we are able to assist you with a free business assessment to make sure you are compliant with local codes and pollution prevention activities. Some businesses may also be eligible for free chemical containment supplies.
Additionally, the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) provides a list of other groups working in NPS pollution prevention area.
Everyone can work to reduce pollution, no matter where you live. Let’s all work together to protect our groundwater and drinking water – your community depends on it!
Learn more about nonpoint source pollution from the EPA.
