Based on a community drinking water system survey from the mid-1990s, 79 percent reported contamination from septic systems, 55 percent were impacted by agricultural runoff, 38 percent had contamination from petroleum fuel tanks, 31 percent had problems from urban runoff, and 27 percent had problems from sewage discharge. In addition, the most common pollutant from an industrial source found in drinking water systems is reported to be TCE, an industrial solvent and dry-cleaning fluid.
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What are the five most common sources of contamination for local drinking water supplies, according to system operators?
Last Updated: August 05, 2010
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This resource area was created by the: Drinking Water and Human Health community
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PRIVATE DRINKING WATER SYSTEMS
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Private Drinking Water System Basics
- Low Yielding Domestic Water Wells
- Well Construction
PROTECTING THE DRINKING WATER SOURCE
- Stormwater and Your Drinking Water Well
- Water Quality Protection Around Your Home
- Setback Distance from Septic to Drinking Water Well
DRINKING WATER AND HUMAN HEALTH
- Drinking Water and Human Health Effects
- Drinking Water Contaminants
- Drinking Water Standards
- Testing Recommendations
MANAGING DRINKING WATER QUALITY PROBLEMS
- Drinking Water Treatment for Private Wells
- Home Water Treatment Devices
- Questions to Ask before You Buy a Water Treatment System
- Selecting a Home Water Treatment System