ENVIRONMENTAL DETERIORATION AND THE THREAT TO FOOD AND AGRICULTURE, 1971. VENEZUELA. A CHANGING ENVIRONMENT. Air pollution in Caracas and water pollution in Lake Maracaibo are some of the problems affecting the environment in Venezuela today. Oil is constantly leaking into Lake Maracaibo which also contains an abnormal growth of algae thought to be caused by excessive organic waste from cities surrounding the lake. The interior of Venezuela is relatively undeveloped. The forest lands have been frequently and indiscriminately destroyed to make pasture - ultimately leading to erosion. Irrigation schemes and erosion control are now being undertaken by the Government. Garbage is burnt on the periphery of Caracas, but due to the conformation of the surrounding mountains and resultant wind currents, vile-smelling smoke and ash cover the city, particularly at night. Hundreds of scavenger birds await an opportunity to strip carcasses.