Bronte Wells
River pollution is a pressing issue that requires collective action and individual efforts to address effectively. While it may seem like a daunting task, there are several measures that can be taken to reduce pollution and improve the health of our rivers. From adopting environmentally conscious voting practices to making simple changes in our daily lives, each of us can play a part in mitigating river pollution and preserving these vital water sources for future generations. In the following paragraphs, we will explore specific actions that individuals and communities can take to combat river pollution and restore the health of our aquatic ecosystems.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Become an informed voter | Vote for thoughtful and responsible land use and conservation policies in your community and state |
| Make a donation | Help implement clean water practices, help farmers and homeowners reduce polluted runoff, and improve clean water regulations and legislation |
| Become a sustaining member | Join the email list to know about issues affecting the Bay and steps to make a difference |
| Reduce or eliminate | Use of fertilizers and chemical herbicides and pesticides |
| Service your septic system | Inspect yearly to ensure proper functioning |
| Landscape with native plants | Reduces stormwater runoff and doesn't require as much watering or fertilizing |
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What You'll Learn
Reduce/eliminate chemical herbicides and pesticides
Pesticides are chemicals designed to kill pests, including insects (insecticides), weeds (herbicides), and fungi (fungicides). They are used in a variety of settings, including agriculture, homes and businesses, lawns and gardens, along roads, in recreational areas, and on pets and livestock.
The use of pesticides can contaminate water sources, including rivers, and harm aquatic ecosystems. In a study conducted by the USGS, 17 pesticides were detected at least once at 74 river and stream sites sampled across the United States between 2013 and 2017. Similarly, in Japan, river water accounts for about 70% of drinking water sources, and out of 53 chemicals found in the Shinano River, 22 were herbicides.
To address this issue, several policies and regulations have been implemented to reduce the potential risk from pesticides. The Water Framework Directive (WFD) sets environmental quality standards for pesticides in surface water, aiming to keep pesticide concentrations in groundwater at low levels. The Eighth Environment Action Programme, part of the European Green Deal, pursues the objective of zero pollution from harmful chemicals in air, water, and soil. The Plant Protection Products Regulation governs the authorisation, marketing, use, and control of plant protection products. The Sustainable Use of Pesticides Directive promotes integrated pest management and non-chemical alternatives to reduce the risks and impacts of pesticide use on human health and the environment.
To eliminate or reduce the use of chemical herbicides and pesticides, individuals and communities can take several actions:
- Promote and adopt organic farming practices that utilize natural pest control methods, such as integrated pest management, crop rotation, and biological pest control.
- Encourage the use of non-chemical alternatives, such as companion planting, beneficial insects, and natural herbicides like vinegar or boiling water.
- Support local farmers' markets and organic food producers to reduce the demand for chemically intensive agriculture.
- Advocate for stricter regulations and enforcement of existing policies, such as the Water Framework Directive, to ensure the protection of water sources from pesticide contamination.
- Educate the community about the proper use, storage, and disposal of pesticides to minimize the risk of contamination.
- Implement integrated pest management strategies in urban settings, such as using pest-resistant plant varieties and maintaining clean environments to reduce pest habitats.
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Service your septic system
Servicing your septic system is critical to protecting groundwater, lakes, and streams, and human health. Here are some detailed guidelines to help you service and maintain your septic system effectively:
Understand the Importance of Septic System Maintenance
A septic system provides wastewater treatment for homeowners, especially those who rely on private wells for drinking water. If your septic system is not functioning properly, contaminants from the wastewater can end up in your drinking water and nearby water bodies, including rivers. A failing septic system can discharge untreated wastewater containing pathogens, nutrients, and other harmful substances, posing a direct public health hazard.
Regular Maintenance and Evaluation
It is important to regularly maintain and evaluate your septic system to ensure it is treating sewage effectively. Don't assume that your system is working just because your used water "goes away." Look for signs of a faulty or poorly functioning system and consult with professionals for significant upgrades.
Conserve Water and Manage Usage
Implement water-conserving practices such as repairing leaks, using low-flow fixtures, and spreading water usage throughout the day and week. If you have periods of high water usage, consult a septic professional for options to manage your system better.
Minimize Use of Harsh Chemicals and Disposal of Hazardous Substances
Avoid using excessive amounts of harsh cleaners, bleach, antibacterial soaps, and detergents, as these can disrupt the natural balance of your septic system. Do not dispose of paints, medications, chemicals, grease, lint, food, feminine hygiene products, or plastics through your septic system. These substances can clog and damage the system and contaminate the wastewater.
Regular Pumping and Inspection
Pump solids through the tank's maintenance hole regularly, at least once every three years. Do not remove solids through inspection pipes. Have the baffles inspected by a professional when the tank is pumped, and install an effluent screen to facilitate better maintenance.
Upgrade and Improve Your Septic System
Consider upgrading your septic system to reduce the impact of wastewater strength, nitrogen contamination, and pathogen levels, especially if your system is older or discharging directly into groundwater. Advanced treatment options, such as disinfection, can be implemented if your system is located in close proximity to surface waters.
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Landscape with native plants
Native plants are an effective way to manage stormwater and protect clean water in rivers, streams, and lakes. Native flowers, grasses, trees, and shrubs can conserve and clean water while supporting local ecosystems. Native plants have deep roots that can infiltrate rainwater into the ground, reducing stormwater runoff from homes and public spaces. For example, the roots of the flower Compass Plant reach up to 15 feet deep into the soil.
Native plants are also more tolerant of a range of weather conditions, from heavy rains to dry spells. As a result, they don't require regular watering and conserve water compared to traditional lawns and landscaping. Native flowers and grasses can also add colour and texture to your garden.
You can integrate native flowers into your existing landscaping and replace struggling trees with native trees like a white oak or eastern redbud. These plants will filter and conserve water, provide habitat for birds and butterflies, and beautify your yard.
Homeowners and businesses can also create rain gardens, which are native gardens specifically designed to capture stormwater in a shallow basin and then infiltrate it into the ground. Native plant gardens or buffer strips along streams also offer a solution for erosion. The same deep roots that soak up stormwater also hold soil in place.
In addition to native plants on land, certain aquatic plants can also help to reduce river pollution by absorbing pollutants in the water. For example, water hyacinth, kiambang, and vetiver can absorb toxic substances in rivers. However, it is important to monitor the growth of these plants as they can become invasive and cause damage to the ecosystem if their reproduction is uncontrollable.
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Become an informed voter
To become an informed voter, it is important to understand the issues affecting your local rivers and streams and to advocate for policies that promote land use and conservation. Voting is a powerful tool to drive change and protect the environment.
The Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF) provides resources to help you become an informed voter. They suggest familiarizing yourself with your local erosion and sediment control ordinances and reporting sites that are out of compliance. For example, elevated chloride (salt) concentration from street salting can be toxic to freshwater organisms, so it is important to be aware of these potential hazards and vote for policies that address them.
You can also support policies that reduce the use of fertilizers and chemical herbicides and pesticides, as these contribute to nitrogen and phosphorus pollution and toxic runoff. Properly functioning septic systems are another important factor in reducing water pollution, so regular inspections are key.
Additionally, you can advocate for the use of native plants in landscaping, as this reduces stormwater runoff and minimizes the need for excessive watering and fertilizing. Educating your community about these issues and encouraging the use of bay-friendly landscaping on community property can also help make a difference.
By staying informed and engaged, you can use your vote to support policies that address river pollution and promote environmental conservation.
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Donate to organisations supporting river conservation
Donating to organisations supporting river conservation is a great way to help protect and restore our rivers. River conservation organisations often rely on donations to carry out their vital work, and your financial support can make a significant difference in safeguarding these precious water bodies and their surrounding ecosystems.
One such organisation is the River Thame Conservation Trust, which works to conserve and restore the Thame River in the UK. They aim to protect the river and its wildlife, enhance water quality, and foster connections between communities and nature. Your donations to the Trust can help fund their various projects, including those that involve working with local communities to improve river health and inspire others to take action for river conservation.
In the United States, Conservation Minnesota is a non-profit organisation dedicated to protecting the state's lakes and rivers. They work to develop conservation systems, improve policies, and educate citizens about water policy advocacy. The Meramec River Project is another US-based initiative focused on restoring the health of the Meramec River, a tributary of the Mississippi River. The project leads conservation efforts to restore habitats, stream banks, and flood plains, and also promotes sustainable practices to protect the river.
The Partnership for Water Conservation is another non-profit organisation worth supporting. They actively engage in protecting watersheds and sustaining river and stream flows. Additionally, the Alliance for The Great Lakes is an important organisation working to protect the Great Lakes, a major geographic marker and a vital source of fish and shipping lanes.
By donating to these or other reputable river conservation organisations, you can play a crucial role in ensuring the health and sustainability of our rivers for future generations to enjoy. Your contributions directly support their efforts to protect water sources, enhance water quality, restore ecosystems, and raise awareness about the importance of river conservation.
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Frequently asked questions
Here are some ways to stop river pollution:
- Reduce or eliminate the use of fertilizers, chemical herbicides, and pesticides.
- Service your septic system annually.
- Landscape with native plants to reduce stormwater runoff.
- Become an informed voter and vote for responsible land use and conservation policies.
- Donate to organizations working towards clean water practices and improved regulations.
Lawn fertilizers and chemicals are a significant source of nitrogen and phosphorus pollution, leading to toxic runoff that can contaminate groundwater and local waterways.
Septic systems should be inspected yearly to ensure they are functioning properly. Waste from failing systems can leak into the groundwater and eventually make its way into rivers and other water bodies.
Native grasses and plants require less watering and fertilizing compared to non-native species. This reduces the amount of stormwater runoff and the need for excessive irrigation, which can help prevent river pollution.
Becoming an informed voter and advocating for responsible land use and conservation policies can have a significant impact. Elected officials can implement and improve clean water regulations, and your voice can influence community and state decisions regarding land use and environmental protection.
