Publisher's Synopsis
Freshwater is one of our nation's most precious resources. Not only do we drink it, but we water food with it and use it for recreation. However, it is being threatened by nonpoint source pollution. Nonpoint source pollution is caused by water collecting pollutants on or in the ground as it migrates to lakes, rivers, or aquifers. In the worst case, the water becomes completely unusable. The authors begin by explaining the hydrologic cycle in minute detail. Because it is difficult to understand the paths of pollution without first understanding the paths of water, figures assure that the reader understands the termonology and concepts behind the science. The authors describe different ways water may become contaminated. They explain the consequences and characteristics of different types of pollution. The report presents four case studies of cities that confronted their pollution problems. Each study illustrates the success that awaits
