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FAQ: Nonpoint Source Pollution

Rain and rainbow on the St. Marys River
Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy

FAQ: Nonpoint Source Pollution

Nonpoint Source (NPS) pollution is caused when rain, snowmelt, or wind carry pollutants off the land and into lakes, streams or wetlands. Also, large quantities of runoff can impact water quality and aquatic life when “flashy flows” cause excessive stream bank erosion.  Michigan’s NPS program helps local stakeholders reduce NPS pollution and excessive runoff by supporting efforts to develop and implement watershed management plans.