Nitrate

What is Nitrate (NO3)?
Nitrate (NO3) is found naturally in the environment and is an important plant nutrient. It is present at varying concentrations in all plants and is part of the nitrogen cycle. Naturally occurring soil nitrates are essential for plant growth. Nitrates will also occur naturally in compost and in wastewater treatment systems. Natural levels of nitrates in soil are increased by the use of nitrogen-based inorganic fertilizers, a portion of which aren’t taken up by plants and may instead leach into groundwater supplies over time. In the Drinking Water Regulations, it is defined as a Chemical parameter.
What is an exceedance for Nitrate (NO3)
The limit for Nitrate (NO3) set out in the drinking water directive is 50mg/l. Therefore, any result above this level is an exceedance for Nitrate (NO3).
How would an exceedance for Nitrate (NO3) occur?
The presence of nitrates (especially where a consistent high concentration are detected) tells us that the supply source water is being polluted.