Toxics on Tap: Pesticides in California Drinking Water Sources

Publication Date: July 1999

Publisher: California Public Interest Research Group. Charitable Trust

Author(s): Brad Heavner

Research Area: Environment

Keywords: toxics; water quality; pesticides

Type: Report

Coverage: California

Abstract:

By relying on the intensive use of toxic pesticides, farms have been able to become massive and profitable production facilities. But counting this agricultural model as a success ignores the damage these pesticides are doing to our health and to our environment. Toxics on Tap presents an analysis of pesticide contamination of water systems across California (as of 1999), showing that the drinking water in some areas is unquestionably hazardous; in many places, testing is so inadequate that nobody knows what is in the public water supply; and the state has not adopted guidelines to protect public health based on the latest research.