What is a common consequence of inadequate wastewater treatment?

Inadequate wastewater treatment can significantly impact the quality of water sources in a community. When wastewater is not treated properly, harmful pathogens, chemicals, and nutrients can remain in the water. This contamination can extend to nearby rivers, lakes, and aquifers, leading to the degradation of those water bodies.

Drinking water sources can be compromised as contaminated surface water may infiltrate groundwater supplies or be mixed with treated drinking water, posing serious health risks to the population. This consequence underscores the importance of effective wastewater management strategies to protect public health and ensure safe drinking water for communities.

In contrast, the other options do not align with the consequences of ineffective wastewater treatment, since inadequate treatment typically does not lead to benefits such as increased agricultural productivity or improved water quality, nor does it enhance the aesthetics of water bodies. Instead, these aspects would likely deteriorate as contamination increases.