Nitrate Contamination of Domestic Wells in Georgia
Author(s)
Tyson, Anthony W.
Bush, Parshall
Perkins, Robert
Segars, William I.
Advisor(s)
Editor(s)
Hatcher, Kathryn J.
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Abstract
Beginning in 1989 the University of Georgia
Cooperative Extension Service began compiling a data base
to determine the extent and distribution of nitrate contamination
of domestic wells in Georgia. From 1989 through
1993 3,419 wells with a known depth were sampled and
analyzed for fifteen mineral elements plus pH, hardness and
nitrate-nitrogen (NO 3-N). Of the shallow wells (less than
100 feet) 3.8 % had NO 3-N concentrations which exceeded
EPA's action level of 10 milligrams per liter (mg/1.) Of the
deep wells(100 feet or greater) 0.9 % exceeded EPA's action
level.
All areas of the state were found to have some contaminated
wells although the problems appear to be localized
and limited mostly to shallow wells. Wells from farms
where livestock or poultry were raised typically had a
greater incidence of elevated nitrate levels.
Sponsor
Sponsored and Organized by: U.S. Geological Survey, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, The University of Georgia, Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology
Date
1995-04
Extent
Resource Type
Text
Resource Subtype
Proceedings