Industry

Pollution of surface waters (i.e., lakes, rivers, and streams) is generally categorized as point source or nonpoint source.

With point source pollution, the cause of the problem can be traced to a single source — for example, a pipe or culvert discharging wastewater from a factory. Some industrial and sewage treatment plants connect directly to a water body and create point source pollution. It is important to note, however, that not all pipes create point source pollution.

In the past, pollution from industrial and domestic point sources was common. However, stronger regulations, newer technologies and more advanced treatment of wastes have reduced pollution.

These sources are regulated by federal, state and local laws. Federal agencies, including the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, regulate or control activities that could result in water pollution.

Within the state, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and Florida’s water management districts work to prevent many kinds of water pollution, restore natural systems already damaged by contaminants, and educate the public about preventing water pollution.

In recent years, it has become rare to hear of a chemical discharge from a factory into a waterway such as the St. Johns River. However, many industries use water in their manufacturing or cooling processes, and their industrial wastewater may be discharged into waterways. The federal National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) regulates impacts caused by municipal storm sewer systems and construction activities.