The source of oil and petroleum in streams, rivers, and lakes is generally not from one giant oil spill but from myriad sources that slowly trickle into waterways. For example, used oil that has been carelessly discarded accumulates in alarming amounts across the nation. To learn more about the magnitude of this contamination and how people can prevent it, click here . On the other hand, our oceans and coastlines are more impacted by serious oil spills which have increasingly occurred over the past few decades. To view a chart detailing the comparative sizes of some of these spills, click here .
Oil spills have the most visible effects on shorelines, beaches, and various species of wildlife.
Other chemicals, such as gasoline, pesticides, and sewage mix with water better than oil, resulting in larger numbers of fish kills. Many animals and birds become coated in oil or accidentally ingest it. This results in serious illness, and most often, death. Certain groups participate in helping rehabilitate these animals. One such group, Wildlife Rehab and Education, specializes in the treatment of and reintroduction of oiled animals back into their natural habitat.