By confining animals to areas or lots, farmers and ranchers can efficiently feed and maintain livestock. But these confined areas become major sources of animal waste. Ground water can also be contaminated by seepage. Discharges can be limited by storing and managing facility wastewater and runoff with an appropriate waste management system. Managing Irrigation .
Inefficient irrigation can cause water quality problems.
Actual crop needs can be measured with a variety of equipment. Managing Pesticides . Pesticides, herbicides, and fungicides are used to kill pests and control the growth of weeds and fungi. These chemicals can enter and contaminate water through direct application, runoff and wind transport. They can kill fish and wildlife, poison food sources, and destroy animal habitat.