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CORVALLIS - The biggest new threat to America's drinking water supplies - nonpoint source pollution - is documented in a new half-hour educational video released by the Oregon State University Extension Service.

"We All Live Downstream" explores urban and rural runoff and the problems it creates for surface and groundwater.

Nonpoint source pollution is carried by rain and irrigation that runs off farms, forests and city streets. It flows from construction sites, mines and septic systems and just about everywhere, experts say. As a national problem, it has surpassed "point source pollution," which involved industry and sewage treatment waste entering rivers, lakes and streams at specific points.

After two decades of cleanup, America's point source pollution is largely under control.

"We All Live Downstream" was shot primarily in Oregon's Tualatin River basin, but Ron Miner, OSU Extension water quality specialist, says its subject matter has implications for most every watershed in the country.

"This video should interest anyone who is concerned about healthy watersheds and clean water supplies," said Miner. "It examines how Oregon residents and government officials are trying to reduce nonpoint source pollution, and offers a variety of tips that can help Americans protect their drinking water sources."

"We All Live Downstream" (VTP 021) costs $30 (including shipping) and may be ordered by mail from: Publications Orders, Agricultural Communications, Oregon State University, A422 Administrative Services Building, Corvallis, OR 97331-2119.