About Nonpoint Source Pollution
he Nonpoint Source (NPS) Pollution Management Program is the lead agency for controlling nonpoint sources of pollution in Nevada. Nonpoint source (NPS) pollution results from a variety of diffuse and dispersed human activities.
Rainfall or snowmelt that runs off the land surface has the potential to incorporate and carry with it natural and human caused pollutants. Eventually these pollutants are transported to Nevada's rivers, streams, lakes, wetlands or groundwater.
Although it is the leading cause of water quality problems in Nevada, controlling NPS pollution remains a challenge. Sources are difficult to locate and the effects of NPS pollutants on specific waters vary and may not always be fully assessed. However, we do know that these pollutants can have harmful effects on drinking water supplies, recreation, fisheries, and wildlife.
NPS pollution management control is particularly important within Nevada, as we are the fastest growing state in the nation. Citizen involvement with water quality protection activities is essential for controlling NPS pollution in order to have sustainable waterbodies. The Nevada NPS Program aims to educate citizens on water quality issues related to NPS pollution. We can all work together to reduce and prevent nonpoint source pollution. Although specific responsibilities are broken down according to federal, state and local jurisdiction, each individual can play an important role by practicing conservation and by changing certain everyday habits. Our Outreach Education web pages promote existing water education efforts to benefit all our communities.
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