Non-point source pollution
non-point source (NPS) pollution–pollution discharged over a wide land area, not from one specific location. These are forms of diffuse pollution caused by sediment, nutrients, organic and toxic substances originating from land-use activities, which are carried to lakes and streams by surface runoff. Non-point source pollution is contamination that occurs when rainwater, snowmelt, or irrigation washes off plowed fields, city streets, or suburban backyards. As this runoff moves across the land surface, it picks up soil particles and pollutants, such as nutrients and pesticides.
Perlman, H. (n.d.). Water Science Glossary of Terms. Retrieved January 12, 2017, from https://water.usgs.gov/edu/dictionary.html