Typical Sources of Drinking Water Contamination

Most drinking water contamination can be attributed to human activities. Controlling contaminants in our drinking water is a delicate balance between regulating the source, determining safe levels, and choosing the best treatment. Listed below are some typical sources of contaminants in drinking water.

Introduction to Water Contamination Landfills and Dumps
Sewage, Partially Treated Waste Water, and Sludge  Industrial Effluents and Waste Disposal
Leakage from Underground Storage Tanks Pesticides
Urban Run-Off Animal Production Wastes
Mines, Tailings, and Spoils Agricultural Run-Off from Crops
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This page was prepared by T.L. Pedersen, June 1997, UCD EXTOXNET FAQ Team.
Revised by B.T. Johnson, November 1997.