Public Health Nursing Practice Exam

Which of the following is considered a nonpoint source of pollution?

1. Hazardous waste site.

2. Animal waste from wildlife.

3. Chlorine poured down a well.

4. Stagnant water.

The correct answer is: Animal waste from wildlife.

Animal waste from wildlife is considered a nonpoint source of pollution because it originates from multiple, diffuse sources rather than a single, identifiable site. Nonpoint source pollution is characterized by runoff that carries pollutants into bodies of water from various locations, such as agricultural fields, urban areas, and natural landscapes. In the case of animal waste from wildlife, it can contribute to the pollution of water bodies when rain or melting snow washes this waste into streams, rivers, or lakes, affecting water quality. This type of pollution is typically more challenging to control and regulate compared to point sources, which can be traced back to specific locations, such as factories or sewage treatment plants. By understanding the nature of nonpoint source pollution, public health professionals can better develop strategies for mitigating its effects on the environment and public health.