Nitrate (as N)

GENERAL INFORMATION
Nitrates (NO3) in drinking water usually originates from fertilizers or from animal or human wastes. Nitrate concentrations in water tend to be highest in areas of intensive agriculture or where there is a high density of septic systems.

HEALTH ADVISORY
Infants below the age of six months who drink water containing nitrate in excess of the MCL could become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and blue baby syndrome.

Standard value 1: 
10.00
Standard units 1: 
ppm
Input units: 
mg/L
ppm
Contaminant group: 
Nutrient
Standard type 1: 
MCL
Action is recommended 1: 

MCL ADVISORY - ACTION IS HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
Nitrate levels were detected in your water sample to exceed the maximum contaminant level (MCL).

Action is optional 1: 

ACTION IS OPTIONAL
Nitrate levels were detected in your water sample but do not exceed the maximum contaminant level.

Typical range in Ohio: 
0.09 - 0.6
Range qualifier: 
Values above 2.0 ppm indicate surfaces sources.
Major sources in drinking water: 
Runoff from fertilizer use; Leaching from septic tanks, sewage; Erosion of earth materials
Treatment options: 

TREATMENT OPTIONS

  • Reverse Osmosis Up to 30 mg/l (does not work well when nitrate levels exceed 30mg/l)
  • Ion exchange (Strong base anion exchanger)
Website resources: 

WEBSITE RESOURCES

Fact sheets: 

FACT SHEETS