Our local natural filtration system

Just as there is a natural Hydrological cycle that consists of evaporation, condensation, and precipitation, a major pollutant in Athol, Mercury, tends to follow this cycle closely. It is introduced into the environmental cycle in a number of ways. Light bulbs, discarded batteries, industrial processes and fertilizers all act as sources of the introduction of mercury into the environment.

The very same conservation lands that have been set aside as habitats for a number of endangered species in northern New England, can serve as a first line of defense against the introduction of heavy metals into the environment. As water soluble mercury travels down river, the sediments in the flood plains tend to provide a large natural filtration system for pollutants. PCB's and heavy metals can become trapped in the sediments of the flood plains and drop out of the water cycle.

Athol benefits from the vast water shed and flood plains that have been set aside and maintained by the Army Corps of Engineers. While not a primary purpose in building them, the function of natural filtration eases the burdens placed on the man-made waste treatment facilities that act as the final arbitrator of these metals in our water supply.