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Indicator Profile of Nitrate in Private WellsWhy Is This Important?Nitrate is a nitrogen compound that occurs naturally in soil, water, plants, and food. It may be formed when microorganisms in the environment break down organic materials, such as plants, animal manure, and sewage. Nitrate can also be found in chemical fertilizers. Nitrate can get into drinking water from runoff of farms, golf courses and lawns, landfills, animal feedlots, and septic systems.High levels of nitrate in drinking water can lead to methemoglobinemia, a form of anemia, particularly in infants ("blue baby syndrome") and pregnant women. Nitrate in Private Wells, Percent of Tested Wells Exceeding MCL, September 2002 to April 2007, by County  Data NotesData Source: Private Well Testing Act Program, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, Well Test Results for September 2002 - April 2007, report published July 2008DefinitionPercent of tested private wells with nitrate concentration exceeding the maximum contaminant level of 10 milligrams per literHow We Calculated the Rates
Page Content Updated On 12/21/09,
Published on 12/21/09
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Department of Health P. O. Box 360, Trenton, NJ 08625-0360 Phone: (609) 292-7837 Toll-free in NJ: 1-800-367-6543 Our Locations |
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