Nitrate in groundwater data & assessment

Public water supply wells and individual residential wells have been contaminated in some areas of the state. These include the Sumas-Blaine Aquifer in Whatcom County, the Lower Yakima Valley, and the Columbia River Basin.

Nitrates can get into groundwater from many sources, including fertilizers, manure on the land, and liquid waste discharged from septic tanks. Natural bacteria in soil converts various forms of nitrogen into nitrate. Rain and irrigation water can carry nitrate down through the soil into groundwater. Groundwater is a source of drinking water for many people.

Nitrate contamination comes with health risks

Nitrate contamination is a concern because contaminated drinking water can reduce the ability of red blood cells to carry oxygen. This can cause serious health problems, especially for infants.

• Nitrate in Drinking Water is a page at the Department of Health (DOH) that describes the risks.
• Private Wells: Information for owners (PDF) is a DOH publication that talks about water testing.

Data informs us about risk

The Nitrate Project is a map-based compilation of groundwater data that identifies groundwater areas across the state that are most vulnerable to nitrate contamination. We present this information to protect problem areas and to help residents and local jurisdictions become informed about risks. See the map for data, including recommended Nitrate Priority Areas.

Partnerships protect the public

This project was a collaboration with Washington departments of Health and Agriculture, as well as the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, U.S. Natural Resource Conservation Service, U.S. Geological Survey, and the Washington Conservation Commission.

Millions of dollars have been spent to deal with nitrate contamination of groundwater. Once aquifers are contaminated, it is difficult for them to recover. We are working together to understand the risks and opportunities for improvement.