Where does NPS Pollution Come From?
Nonpoint source pollution finds its way into streams, rivers, and groundwater supplies from virtually everywhere. It is caused by human activities and natural processes involving land, air, and water. NPS pollution is present in the runoff from cities, suburbs, and farms. It is created during activities such as construction, forestry, and mining. NPS pollutants move through air, across the land, and through the soil, making their way to surface and ground waters. Some studies have reported as much as 70 percent of all water pollution comes from NPS pollutants. Nonpoint source pollution is more than just an eyesore. It is a threat to our environment, our economy, and our health.
