What is the major cause of pollution of drinking water sources in cities and towns?
Rainwater is the main source of pollution to surface waters. The rainwater itself is not harmful, however, as it travels to the catch basins, it picks up and carries untreated waste products from the streets and discharges it directly into the rivers, streams, and lakes. These rivers streams and lakes are the sources for surface water drinking systems. So, if rainwater can be harmful, why is it not treated? Storm water runoff is infrequent and it does not make sense to build special treatment processes for those times that it does rain. How can I help prevent the pollution of drinking water sources? Properly dispose of chemicals you use in your home. Don’t dump waste into the street drains; this will end up in the creeks, Take them to your local Solid Waste Management District. Other ways to help are by picking up after your pet, maintaining your septic system, and recycling used motor oil.
