Watershed Pollution

What is a watershed?

• One body of water that drains into a larger body of water

• A collection of water underground that can be used as a water supply

• An area of land that drains into a specific body of water

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS2-4

How do most pollutants get into our watershed?

• Factories dump pollution into creeks and rivers

• Runoff from heavy rain carries it into creeks and rivers

• Oil spills leak into creeks and rivers

Why should we be concerned with runoff water from neighborhood and city streets that goes into storm drains?

• It can host alligators and other dangerous animals

• It can get into water pipes and flood houses and businesses

• It isn't filtered or cleaned and empties directly into creeks

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-3

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

Bacteria is one of the main pollutants of concern in our watershed. What is the source of most pathogenic (harmful) bacteria that gets into our waters?

• Animal feces or human sewage

• Trash

• Fertilizers

Excess nutrients can be harmful to our watershed. Where do excess nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorous, typically come from?

• Sediment or dirt

• Oil and chemical spills

• Overuse of fertilizers

High levels of sediment in the water can be harmful to aquatic plants and animals. Which of these human activities can lead to soil erosion?

• Applying fertilizer on lawns and crops

• Allowing pet waste to wash into the watershed during rains

• Construction sites for new neighborhoods and businesses

Pet owners should pick up pet waste instead of leaving it on the ground. How can this help protect our watershed?

• It reduces the bacteria and nutrients that get into our water

• It keeps the water from getting muddy

• It helps the water smell clean

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

Excess nutrients in the water can be harmful, because they lead to -

• High levels of sediment in the water

• Pathogenic (disease causing) bacteria in the water

• Algae blooms and low oxygen levels in the water

One of the most effective ways to prevent soil erosion is to -

• Cover bare soil with concrete or bricks

• Spray fertilizer on the soil

• Plant grasses, shrubs, and trees in areas of bare soil

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-5

How might a concrete septic tank cause problems in the watershed?

• The tank or its pipes could crack and leak sewage, which could pollute the groundwater

• Harmful chemicals from the concrete can soak into the soil and be washed into creeks

• The toxic chemicals in the tank could kill nearby plants and lead to soil erosion

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-4