BY: Mosammat Taher

RUNOFFS

WHAT IS A RUNOFF?A run off is when water flows over land areas mixing with soil, minerals, and other contents, finally draining at a point.

Naturally, this point should be a channel such as rivers and lakes

These kind of points are known as nonpoint sources

Going over these surfaces, the water can be absorbed by the soil and ground, which is an important aspect of the water cycle

What Could Be the Problem?Unfortunately, the surfaces for this water to flow over are not the best because the water has to go over man made materials. When it rains or snow melts, the water goes over: Roads, pavements, buildings, rooftopsProblem: the water that is supposed to be absorbed by the soil (which is known as aquifer) cannot do that; interrupting the water cycle

As the water flows over these surfaces, it gets pretty dirty and contaminated by the chemicals founds on these places: Pesticides, fertilizers, Oil, Dirt, Rubber, Garbage like plastic bags and bottlesProblem: Since this water ends up somewhere like a river , all these contaminants are now put into these major water sourcesThis is known as nonpoint source pollution

Effects on Environment

• When roads are built, erosion occurs faster because the soil under is weak and the water can erode it much more quickly. The structures built can erode fast as well.

• Water picks up rocks and sediments that fall into bottom on water sources causing block from sunlight, fish can choke thinking it’s food, and their mating/birthing areas become interrupted

• Pesticides and fertilizers also fall into water sources polluting the water and harming reproduction and growth of organisms

• Many oils, car exhausts, and heavy metals are dangerous and fatal to aquatic life

• Affects ecosystems, niches, and populations

Effect on HumansDrinking water supplies can be contaminated by polluted runoff. Humans who come in contact with polluted water and fish can experience harmful symptoms or even die.

Prevention. Control. Regulation The Commerce Department's National Oceanic and Atmospheric

Administration (NOAA) works with Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Agriculture and other agencies to find ways to control runoff pollution. They monitor and limit runoff pollution:

• Don't pour oil, cleaners, or chemicals down drains or sinks.• Find chemical recycling or disposal facilities near you • Use lawn and garden chemicals scarcely • Before using fertilizer, check the weather for rain • Repair engine leaks immediately• Get Educated by programs • Educate f amily and friends

Solving Runoff Block by Blockby GreenTreks Network

Sources

• http://www.yoto98.noaa.gov/facts/pollut.htm• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_table• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aquifer• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siltation• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Surface_runoff• http://vimeo.com/9313020