1. What is Non-Point Source Pollution? Non-point source pollution is the type of pollution where a single point of entrance to the water is unidentifiable. Non-point source originates from a variety of places, pesticides and fertilizers run off agriculture fields and household lawns and oil runs off parking lots, and cow manure seeping into streams. Even the rain that falls into the water or its watershed can contribute to non-point source pollution by adding pollution found within the atmosphere.

2. Where Is the Pollution Born? Non-point source pollution comes from many places. These may include: –Runoff from roads into rivers and lakes. –Chemicals added to residential lawns. –Dog poop running off and into the rivers and lakes. –Chemicals from agriculture fields. –Defecation from livestock animals into the river.

3. What’s the Big Deal? Because the point of pollution is widespread and vast this type of pollution is harder to control and regulate. Most people think of pollution as coming from industry and cars, not from there farms or yard. It’s hard to admit when your doing something wrong.

4. What Can I Do? Many things can be done to limit non-point source pollution. The best way to prevent non-point source pollution is to be aware that pollution can come from anywhere, even your backyard. Tell people about what you’ve learned about pollution and how it impacts the rivers and lakes.

5. More Information http://www.epa.gov/ORD/WebPubs/fresh/ http://www.epa.gov/owow/nps/kids/whatwr ng.htmhttp://www.epa.gov/owow/nps/kids/whatwr ng.htm http://www.nhq.nrcs.usda.gov/land/env/wq1.htmlhttp://www.nhq.nrcs.usda.gov/land/env/wq1.html