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1. What is nitrate?

Nitrate-nitrogen (nitrate) is a nutrient required by aquatic flora for growth and reproduction. However, when high concentrations of nitrates make their way into groundwater and surface waters, problems often arise.

2. What are the effects of nitrate on health and the environment?

High nitrate concentrations may create an imbalance in a natural surface water system, causing excessive growth of algae and other vegetation. In shallow areas an overabundance of algae blocks the light needed by underwater vegetation. Algae take up dissolved oxygen as they die and decompose. The resulting lack of oxygen affects fish, shellfish, and aquatic invertebrates.

High nitrate levels can create health concerns, too. Concentrations that exceed the federal drinking water standard (10 milligrams of Nitrate as Nitrogen per liter of water) can result in methemoglobinemia, or "blue baby" syndrome.

More Information

• For information about health risks related to nitrates, please visit the Florida Department of Health website.
• For information about nitrate levels within the District, use our interactive water quality data map.

3. Where do nitrates come from?

Sources of nitrates in groundwater and surface waters are:

• Animal waste
• Atmospheric deposition
• Fertilizers
• Septic tanks

4. Are Nitrates a problem in the District?

Elevated nitrate concentrations have been found in groundwater, springs, and rivers in the District, particularly in the Suwannee River Basin. Monitoring and studies are underway to identify trends in nitrates.

Reports and studies are available. Please use our Online Contact Form to request these documents.

5. How is the problem being addressed?

The District is working with other agencies and individuals to monitor and reduce the level of nitrates in our groundwater and surface waters. More information about water quality improvement projects can be found on our Water Quality webpage.

The Suwannee River Partnership was formed in 1999 to coordinate efforts between government agencies, farmers and growers, and local citizens to find solutions to the nitrate problem in the Middle Suwannee basin.

The Department of Health offers a publication titled "Drinking Water: Is Yours Safe?" This brochure addresses the problem of lead, bacteria, nitrates and other contaminants in drinking water. Request copies from your nearest County Health Department office, the main Department of Health office in Tallahassee or download it from the Florida Department of Health website.

For more information on nitrate, see visit our Water Data Portal.