Nitrates

Executive Summary

Nitrates were not detected in the Duck Pond this year. This is significantly lower than all other years tested, and could be due to late summer weather patterns and drought conditions in 2025.

What are Nitrates?

A compound made of nitrogen and oxygen
Occurs naturally in soil, water, & plants

Nitrate Levels

0-3 mg/L is normal
10 mg/L or above is unsafe

What are you looking for when testing?

The presence & concentration of nitrate ions
Can be detected by color change using Zinc colorimetry

Why does it matter to water quality?

High levels are harmful to wildlife
Algal blooms
Oxygen depletion

2025-2024

Significant change

Within normal range

Drought in 2025 causing no runoff with fertilizer

2025-2023

Significant change between the dates

Within normal range

Drought in 2025 and not 2023 - fertilizer getting into storm drains

(AS)

2025-2022

Levels in '22 measured using a different sampling method

Cannot be accurately compared

How to keep levels normal/prevent

Buffer Strips
Nutrient Management
Live Plants

Page Creators:

Addie Strayer - Margaretta Class of 2027

Austin Watson - Margaretta Class of 2027

Natalie Thompson - Margaretta Class of 2026

Page updated

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