Erosion and Sedimentation
Erosion occurs when water moves soil from one place to another.
Erosion occurs naturally, but is increased by agriculture, forestry, construction,
urban runoff, or mining. Sedimentation occurs when eroded soil is deposited
into a water body. Sediments carry pollutants such as nutrients, bacteria,
heavy metals, and harmful chemicals into the river.
Excessive sedimentation covers a stream bottom, which eliminates
aquatic habitat, increases flooding, decreases the recreational and aesthetic
value of a stream, and makes water more difficult and expensive to treat.
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Point Source Pollution Versus Non-Point Source Pollution
For most people, the thought of water pollution brings to mind images of nasty chemicals being released from a pipe at a factory or sewage treatment plant. This type of pollution is called point source pollution.
Point source pollution
is a concern for water quality, but as the name suggests, the source of
this pollution is identifiable and regulated by state and federal agencies.
The other type of pollution is known as non-point source pollution. This type of pollution is much more difficult to pinpoint and control because the pollutants come from many places over a widespread area.
Most of the Pollution that impacts
the Little River comes from non-point sources
Understanding the various types of pollutants,
their impacts and sources can assist in taking action to improve overall
water quality of the Little River.
