Natural - Organic and inorganic materials such as leaves, grass clippings, and dirt sediment
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Decaying vegetation and sediments transport heavy metals and phosphorous compounds that can become toxic and harm water quality. Sedimentation also fills waterways resulting in more severe flooding over time.
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Construction sites, eroded areas, poor handling or dumping of grass/leaves, animal feces/waste, and fertilizers from irrigated lawns
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Chemical - Detergents, engine coolant, engine oil, grease, fertilizer, and paint
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A single gallon of oil can contaminate 1 million gallons of drinking water, or just 1 quart can contaminate 150,000 gallons of water.
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Leaky vehicles and equipment, poor handling or dumping of oil or grease, industrial areas, and car washing
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Litter - Any trash, including plastic bags and bottles, cigarette butts, etc.
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Litter produces an obvious visual pollution which can physically damage animals and natural vegetation and can release substances poisonous to natural systems when it breaks down. Storm water drains in Prescott Valley do not filter many pollutants including trash.
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Littering, illegal dumping, packaging polystyrene foam, bags, and tires
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