Water Pollutants

     There are many sources of pollution in our waters.  In addition to point sources such as sewage and industrial waste, a great deal of water pollution comes from non-point sources such as agricultural runoff and stormwater drainage.

Common water pollutants include pesticides, lead, arsenic and polychlorinateed biphenyls (PCBs).  The protection of our water sources from these and other pollutants is one of the EPA's most important challenges.  Under the Clean Water Act, the Agency regulates discharges of pollutants into the waters of the United States and sets effluent standards.  The EPA also works with state and local authorities to control the pollution from non-point sources.