Nitrate and nitrite
Nutrients that can enter water from the landscape — fertilizer, septic systems, nature. They matter most where drinking water comes from groundwater.
Landscape
fertilizer, septic
Groundwater
where it seeps in
Tap or well
test when it matters
What people notice
Questions from rural residents, well owners, and households with infants. Infants are the classic reason nitrate limits are strict.
What records usually show
On public systems, nitrate can appear in day-to-day cards or as a flagged result if above the standard. Private wells are not covered by these municipal pages.
What you can do
- On a well (especially with an infant): periodic nitrate testing through a lab — public records do not cover your well.
- On city water: check your system page and the city’s annual report if you want more detail.