Pollution Prevention

It is a well-established fact that "nonpoint source pollution" (NPS), water pollution that cannot be traced to a specific point of origin, is the most significant source of pollution in our water resources nationwide. Potential sources are fertilizers and pesticides from farms and gardens, failing septic tanks, urban runoff, construction, trash, and even animal feces. When it rains, water that is not absorbed into the soil washes off the land surface. When water runs over land, it picks up natural or human-made pollutants, and deposits them in surface waters or groundwater.

All of the pollutant indicators, such as suspended solids, nutrients, heavy metals, coliform bacteria and biochemical oxygen demand are carried in excess in stormwater runoff entering Florida's waters. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection reports that more than half of the pollutant loading that enters Florida's surface waters and more than 75 percent of the pollutants in Florida's lakes are attributable to nonpoint source runoff. In recent years, pollution to local waterways has become an increasing problem for Brevard and the surrounding counties. What is less recognized is how much the everyday actions of each person at home, at work or at play, contribute unknowingly to the problem. In an effort to raise awareness of these "pointless personal pollutions".

Its time to think about what each of us can do to reduce harmful effects on our lakes, streams and drinking water. Most people are unaware of their everyday behaviors that harm our water. The preservation and protection of local waters such as Turkey Creek, Indian River Lagoon and the St. Johns River can depend on small changes people make in their daily habits. Government investment in cleanup projects is costly and can meet only part of the challenge of restoring water quality.

The goal of the City of Palm Bay’s Stormwater Program is to encourage people to stop and think about nonpoint source pollution. We are here to help address pointless personal pollution by educating people about simple changes in their daily behaviors that can help improve water quality.

We have education and training avaliable to help you understand how you can help!  Additionally we are looking for volunteers, need bright future credits, community service credit or got free time you need to fill?  Contact Kaylene Wheeler via email or at 321-953-8996 today!

^Top