Surface water sources like lakes and streams provide a myriad of benefits, for both the people and wildlife. Over two-thirds of the public supply of water comes from surface water, with groundwater providing the balance. It only makes sense to embrace ways to protect water sources.
Urban Runoff Reduction
Urban areas contribute to water pollution by providing a swift means for contaminated runoff to enter lakes and streams. Paved surfaces reduce the resistance to water flow. Water can move faster, while carrying pollutants. Another risk exists with flooding.
To reduce urban runoff, thoughtful city planning is essential. Simple measures such as sidewalks on one side of the street only can reduce the amount of impervious surfaces. Plantings along roadways can prevent erosion, while slowing water flow from the surface onto paved surfaces. The vegetation can trap sediment that otherwise would pollute waterways.
Agricultural Best Practices
Agriculture contributes a significant portion of the pollutants that end up in surface water. Soil erosion from livestock grazing or plowed fields adds sediment to the water that can degrade its quality. Fertilizers and pesticides add toxins that can be deadly to both humans and wildlife.
Implementing farming best practices can reduce the pollutant load entering lakes and streams. Contour farming, for example, can slow water flow over hilly terrains. Rotating crops or planting pest-resistant species can lessen the need for pesticide application. Livestock farmers can reduce pollution by providing alternative grazing areas to reduce the pressure on one location.
Green Landscaping Ideas
On a smaller scale, homeowners can implement agricultural best practices with changes in landscaping. An easy way to reduce the impacts of urban runoff is to simply leave grass clippings on the lawn. They will provide a natural fertilizer to minimize the use of lawn chemicals.
In low-lying areas, rain gardens offer a way to slow water flow and prevent soil erosion. The vegetation can stabilize the banks and minimize the amount of exposed soil. Homeowners can also recycle rainwater by placing collection barrels at drain sprouts of their homes. This can reduce the amount of water flow on impervious surfaces, while providing a savings for the homeowner.
Proper Waste Disposal
Contrary to popular belief, the average person is one of the main sources of water pollution. Dumping waste into lakes and streams contaminates the water, even with small amounts. Leftover oil from an oil change can pollute up to one million gallons of water. Engine oil introduces a host of contaminants, including heavy metals that will persist in the environment. Recycling, therefore, is essential to protect lakes and streams.
Household hazardous waste is not regulated like industry-generated waste. This fact places the burden on the individual to make sound choices that do not adversely affect the environment.
Wetland Restoration
Wetlands offer one of the best ways to protect lakes and streams. The water-loving soils of these habitats act like a sponge to absorb water that would otherwise cause floods or contribute to water pollution.
Wetlands provide other environmental benefits. Located near moving water, wetlands can slow water flow and prevent erosion. They can also filter flowing water for contaminants. As the water slows, larger particles drop into the sediment layer rather than entering waterways. Contaminants will stay locked away as long as the wetlands remain undisturbed.
Protecting waterways is more than preserving a scenic view. Lakes and streams as well as groundwater provide a vital source of drinking water. The actions taken to protect these areas will ensure safe drinking water quality for all.
Sources:
- Minnehaha Creek Watershed District. (2011). Clean Water for Your Home and Yard. Retrieved November 11, 2011, from minnehahacreek.org.
- University of Minnesota Extension. (2008). Caring for Shoreland Lawns and Gardens. Retrieved November 11, 2011, from extension.umn.edu.
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2011). Erosion, Sediment and Runoff Control for Roads and Highways. Retrieved November 11, 2011, from water.epa.gov.
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2011). Used Oil Management Program. Retrieved November 11, 2011, from epa.gov.
- U.S. Geological Survey. (2011). Surface Water Use in the United States, 2005. Retrieved November 11, 2011 from water.usgs.gov.
