In quantity, they may even damage sanitary sewage treatment systems. Care is necessary when disposing of such materials. Many people don t think of sediment as being a pollutant. It is, however, the most common nonpoint source pollutant in Oklahoma and across the nation. Its presence above naturally occurring levels has serious implications to the health of the aquatic environment.
Erosion produces excess sediment that clogs streams and ditches, often causing flooding.
Sediment can interfere with the feeding and reproduction of fish and aquatic insects, disrupting the food chain. Sediment is doubly a concern because of its role as a carrier of other pollutants such as phosphorus and pesticides. Contaminated water from a nursery operation is a perfect, mobile taxi for pollutants. Considering water as a contaminant transport system might be a new way of thinking. Take a look at water flow during irrigation periods and give some thought to where the water is going.