ABSTRACT
Despite what many people think, waterborne disease and water contamination are not limited to developing nations. More and more frequently in the U.S., the news media report about contaminated water and resulting illness. Water is not always as pure or safe as we think. In countries throughout the world, lakes, rivers and oceans are used as dumping grounds for all kinds of waste. In the U.S., laws have been passed to protect our water. But these laws might not be enough to stem the tide of pollution discharged from factories, running off of fields, and dumped illegally. An awareness of the problem and a strong sense of responsibility are essential for proper management and preservation of a safe, plentiful water supply.
