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Why is dirt in a stream considered a pollutant? Isn’t dirt (“sediment”) a natural part of the stream? The answer lies in the quantity of sediment. Too much sediment covers up the habitat used by stream organisms such as fish and aquatic insects. When their “homes” get filled in, they cannot forage for food or seek shelter from predators. 

Sediment runoff clogs fish gills. Fish can essentially suffocate on these tiny particles, so they avoid areas having high suspended solids. Toxic substances can also attach to fine sediment. As the particles are carried downstream, the toxic substances are transported along with them. Excess sediments can also build up in the storm drainage systems, causing blockages and flooding. Sediment in streets and streams is an unsightly nuisance, and it is not appreciated by owners trying to sell nice lots in attractive developments.
                                    
Chemical pollutants from construction activities include fertilizers, paints, solvents, gasoline, diesel fuels, oils, antifreeze, pesticides, degreasers, transmission and hydraulic fluids, and cleaning chemicals. Even paper, cardboard and plastic trash discarded on-site are considered to be pollutants. OKR10 requires all of these pollutants to be controlled to protect local water quality.

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