Inorganic Medium Risk
Nitrate
Blue baby syndrome in infants, decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of blood
Sources: Fertilizer runoff, Septic tanks, Animal waste
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (10 mg/L)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
10 mg/L
Goal (MCLG)
0 mg/L
Violating Systems
3 nationwide
Affected Population
1.1M estimated
Avg Detected Level
6.0601 mg/L in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Nitrate in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause blue baby syndrome in infants, decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of blood. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 10 mg/L to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks.
Detailed Health Effects
Blue baby syndrome in infants, decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of blood
Common Sources
1
Fertilizer runoff 2
Septic tanks 3
Animal waste 4
Sewage treatment National Overview
Total Tests
58
Violations Found
3
Violation Rate
5.2%
Top States by Violations
Most Affected Systems
Treatment Methods
Ion exchange
Reverse osmosis
Biological denitrification
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Nitrate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Nitrate and why is it in drinking water?
Nitrate is a inorganic contaminant. Common sources include: Fertilizer runoff, Septic tanks, Animal waste, Sewage treatment.
What are the health effects of Nitrate in drinking water?
Blue baby syndrome in infants, decreased oxygen-carrying capacity of blood
What is the EPA limit for Nitrate?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Nitrate is 10 mg/L.
How can I remove Nitrate from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Nitrate include: Ion exchange, Reverse osmosis, Biological denitrification.
How do I test my water for Nitrate?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Nitrate levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.