How can pesticides impact water resources?

Pesticides can significantly impact water resources primarily through the processes of runoff and leaching. When pesticides are applied to agricultural fields or landscapes, a portion of these chemicals can be carried away by rainfall or irrigation water, which runs off the surface and enters nearby water bodies such as rivers, lakes, and streams. This process can lead to contamination of both surface water and groundwater.

Additionally, leaching occurs when pesticides seep through the soil and into the groundwater, potentially affecting wells and aquifers that supply drinking water. The presence of pesticides in water resources can create harmful conditions for aquatic life and pose health risks to humans and animals that rely on that water for consumption. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of how pesticides can introduce pollutants into water sources is crucial for managing their use and protecting environmental and public health.