Pollution in the Ohio river



When only one of the twenty-one rivers in Ohio meets the federal clean water standards for recreational purposes (such as boating, fishing and swimming), then it's time to worry. The sad truth is that most of the rivers in Ohio are too polluted with metal, sewage waste, bacteria and other contaminants to be used for recreational purposes. This is the case of the the third most polluted river in America: the Ohio river. Officials have warned citizens not to eat more than one meal that includes fish per month, due to the high levels of mercury and various contaminants that could eventually lead to cancer. They have also advice to avoid recreational activities such as swimming and water skiing due to the elevated bacteria counts.

According to Ohio's EPA, Ohio river has high levels of dioxins and PCBs. Although they have been banned for over a decade, they don't ever brake down completely. Dioxins and PCBs can cause brain damage, cancer and immune system related problems. Mining practices produce sediments, acid rain and a heavy concentration of metal levels that harm aquatic life, are some of the other issues the river is up against to.

Sadly that is just the beginning of the list of problems attacking the Ohio River. Among many other issues that the river is facing we can mention: Thermal pollution from the coal-fired plants, old petroleum spills, mercury pollution, severe erosion and sedimentation due to bad construction and logging practices. Agricultural activities contribute to the problem since is thanks to them that manure, chemical fertilizers, and harmful pesticides overload the river with nutrients every day. To those contaminant factors we have to add pollutants, from the streets and buildings, form cars and public spaces that are annually wash into the river by heavy rainfalls.

Although the list of contaminants and problems to solve seems endless, there are several good reasons why to initiate or continue aiding this mighty river. The Ohio river is a source of drinking water for over 3 million people in different states. Over 25 million people lives nearby the river's watershed, more than 140 different species of fish dwell in it's waters, and it is a vital pathway for several species of migratory birds. We still in time to make a change and save this river, don't sit and wait for authorities to do something, this is one of those situations where the best thing to do, is to get your hands dirty, even if is just to pick up some garbage. Start a river watershed group, organize cleanups, recycle, and correctly dispose your household's wastes, the Ohio river will sure appreciate it.