Agricultural Activities and Their Environmental Impact on Surface Waters: A Review

Abstract

Freshwater bodies have been significantly impacted by changing land use and land cover patterns, as well as changing environmental and climatic factors. Both point and nonpoint sources contribute significantly to water contamination. Point sources can be controlled, but managing and keeping an eye on non-point sources is far more difficult. Pollution in the current situation makes access to potable water practically difficult as water resources become more limited. To feed a rising population, intensive agricultural practices increase the use of pesticides and fertilizers, which causes runoff and eutrophication of freshwater systems. This assessment focuses on how agricultural practices affect water bodies, the environment, and people's health as non-point sources of pollution. It looks at the intricate relationships between local water quality and land use.