This information pamphlet is for teachers, students, or the general public concerned with the types of waste water treatment systems, the need for further treatment, and advanced methods of treating wastes. Present day pollution control methods utilizing primary and secondary waste treatment plants, lagoons, and septic tanks are described, illustrated, and evaluated. Eight categories of pollutants affecting our waters are given accompanied by the effect each has on man and the environment. Water renovation techniques involving coagulation-sedimentation, absorption, electrodialysis, and the blending of treated water are discussed. In addition, new challenges for waste treatment including reverse osmosis, methods of chemical oxidation, and the use of polymers are investigated. Throughout, problems of water pollution control and waste disposal are presented to illustrate the need for planning, financing, and buidling facilities to meet governmental water quality standards. A glossary of common sewage treatment terms is included. (BL)