Nitrates

Although nitrates are vital for our food supply, and are used by farmers in fertilizers that replenish soil, they are toxic if they directly enter our food chain, which normally happens when nitrate runoff gets into the water supply. 

Since nitrates are often used in agricultural communities, water contamination is more often seen in towns adjacent to farmland. Irrigated water that has fertilizer in it can also cause contamination. In fact, nitrates can work their way into surface and groundwater sources as easily as sediment can. 

The nitrates in fertilizer are very good for plants, but not for humans. They can cause the following:

• Organ failure
• Delayed development in children
• Reproductive system issues

If you reside in a rural area that has had its water supply tainted by nitrates, it can be a lengthy and expensive process to get them out of your drinking water. Therefore, it’s always best to contact an expert such as Mel's Water/CIMS Water Solutions to test your water and correct any problem.