PHYSICIAN'S GUIDE TO WATER POLLUTION.

Abstract

WATER POLLUTION menaces health, is a threat to outdoor recreation, destroys fish, is an economic burden, and is esthetically objectionable. Last year, 50 million fish were reported killed in US coastal waters and rivers. Radioactive wastes have been found in the Colorado River, acid mine drainage fouls many streams in Pennsylvania and West Virginia, unsewered septic tanks drain into underground waters, chemical pesticides have been involved in fish kills, and oil spills are common. The US in 1964 probably is more aware than ever of the need to conserve natural resources, such as air, water, land, and timber. The number of federal, state, and local agencies and private associations active in guarding water resources has grown rapidly. Conservation, industrial, recreational, and health groups have vital interests in and need support in securing constructive programs to insure that the nation's waters will not deteriorate to the point of practical uselessness. Useful