Pollution of surface waters due to storm water runoff is
of great concern. As rainwater drains off the land and into the storm
water system, it picks up various pollutants and contaminants. These
pollutants include:
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Automotive fluids
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Sediment and silt
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Landscaping chemicals
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Pet wastes
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Litter
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And yard waste
all of which can cause problems for waterways and aquatic organisms.
Automotive fluids often contain toxic chemicals, metals, and organic
hydrocarbons.
Sediments and silts can adversely affect the natural habitat of aquatic
life.
Landscaping chemicals can contain chemicals toxic to aquatic life and nutrients
which contribute to the reduction of available oxygen in water.
Pet waste can contribute to the reduction of available oxygen.
Litter is a macro pollutant which has many adverse effects.
Yard wastes have many potential impacts including macro pollutants, and reducing
oxygen as they decompose. Decomposition products can also be toxic to
aquatic life.
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