Mining has a number of negative effects on then environment. Groundwater pollution, deforestation, decreased air quality due to dust erosion, and the release of toxic chemicals are some of the worst consequences. Deforestation is the removal of forests. This leads to less oxygen being produced, more runoff, more erosion of topsoil, and decreased habitat for animals and other species. Agricultural uses of land may look appealing from a distance but up close, the application of pesticides, herbicides, and antibiotics may make agricultural land use less friendly to the environment. Additionally, plowing and irrigation frequently lead to increased erosion. Overgrazing animals can strip the vegetation from an area which can also cause increased erosion. Urbanization is the growth of urban areas which include buildings, roads, and other unnatural structures. Urbanization usually increases runoff into streams and rivers because many city surfaces like roofs, pavement, and sidewalks do not allow water to soak in. This can cause increased flooding in nearby streams, rivers, and lakes. Additionally, urbanization usually decreases habitats for animals.