Trash on Connecticut River bank in South Deerfield, MA. Credit: USFWS

Contaminants Solutions

Pollution of streams harms the health and survival of fish and other aquatic organisms in their habitat.

What can you do?

Acid rain

• Choose vehicles with efficient fuel

• Choose greener energy providers, solar panels, energy star labeled items

Non point source

• Recycle oil - do not pour used oil into street drains

• Maintain septic systems

• Support the clean water act legislation and supplementation

Mercury

• Turn in mercury thermometers and replace them with digital thermometers

• Avoid buying products that contain mercury. For disposal options call your Town Hall, Department of Public Works, or Board of Health

• Use less electricity

• Purchase items with the Energy Star Label

Lead

• Substitute lead with non-lead shot and fishing sinkers such as steel or bismuth

• Hunters can use steel or lead alternative shots

Benefits

• Improves fish health

• Improves water quality

• Provides cleaner air

• For assistance, visit the EPA Web site

Solutions to in stream pollution include actions at the individual level like use of recycled oil and other consumer decisions. Actions at the national and regional level are required to address bigger issues like acid rain and global warming.