How does Fecal Pathogen Pollution (FPP) affect our environments?
Fecal material containing germs contaminate our environment, and can make water and food unsafe. Stool, manure, feces are carried in the water when there are storms. The fecal material is carried into downstream waterways, and is transported to many water sources, including the oceans and beaches. River, lake, and beach closures take place when there are large and obvious spills of feces and disease-causing agents. There are times when you can’t see or smell the contamination, and yet it is still dangerous to be in such areas. Many animals and people are exposed to infectious agents without even noticing it. If you go to sites such as: www.earth911.org/usa/WaterQuality/index.asp , or www.calwater.com you will be able to check the water quality of beaches and other sources. You can also check with your county health department about the water quality of beaches, rivers, and lakes. We all impact our environment and can take actions to improve public health, animal health, and environment
