The politics of nonpoint pollution control: A local perspective

Excerpt

NONPOINT-SOURCE water pollution is a nonissue on most local political agendas currently. Why? Because people perceive the issue as ill-defined, the evidence inconclusive, and the remedies impractical.

My perspective on nonpoint-source pollution has been gleaned from numerous conversations with a variety of people, including local elected representatives of both general and special-purpose governments; employees of local, state, and federal governments; developers and builders; environmentalists; consultants in engineering and planning; citizen groups; and individuals.

The view of the nonpoint-source pollution issue emerging from these conversations is pragmatic. If there is a specific problem that can be identified and defined and there is an effective solution available, then let's take action. On the other hand, if the problem is ill-defined, the effectiveness of possible solutions uncertain, or the cost excessive, then take no action now. Or, in the words of one farmer who also serves as a county commissioner, “Let the dogs lie til you're ready to hunt.”.

Defining the issue

The term nonpoint-source pollution is vague. It has little meaning to a general audience. To a specific audience, its meaning depends upon the perspective of that audience. For …