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Occurrence of Nitrate in Groundwater—A Review

Water Center and Agronomy Dep., Institute of Agric. and Nat. Res., Univ. of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68583-0844

M. E. Exner

Conservation and Survey Div., Institute of Agric. and Nat. Res., Univ. of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68583-0844.

^* Corresponding author.

ABSTRACT

The results of federal, state, and local surveys, which included more than 200 000 NO₃-N data points, are summarized in this review of NO₃ in groundwater in the USA. The levels of NO₃-N are associated with source availability and regional environmental factors. In regions where well-drained soils are dominated by irrigated cropland, there is a strong propensity toward the development of large areas with groundwater that exceeds the maximum contaminant level of 10 mg/L NO₃-N. Most of these areas are west of the Missouri River where irrigation is a necessity. Aquifers in highly agricultural areas in the southeastern USA reportedly are not contaminated. Vegetative uptake and denitrification in this warm, wet, C-rich environment are responsible for the natural remediation of NO₃ in shallow aquifers. In the Middle Atlantic states and the Delmarva Peninsula, localized contamination occurs beneath cropped, well-drained soils that receive excessive applications of manure and commercial fertilizer. Extensive tile drainage has for the most part prevented a NO₃ problem in the groundwater of the Corn Belt states. Throughout the USA there are recurring themes. They include a decrease in NO₃-N levels with depth; lower NO₃-N levels in shallow wells (< 8 m); and a significant increase in NO₃-N in older wells and in wells with poor construction. The factors affecting the distribution of NO₃ in aquifers are complex and poorly understood. Interdisciplinary studies using discrete depth sampling, hydrogeological indicators, isotopic tracers, and microbiological techniques are necessary to unravel the complex dynamics.

Journal Series no. 9975, Agric. Res. Div., Univ. of Nebraska.

Received for publication June 19, 1992.

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