Nitrate Pollution Awareness Week

Nitrate Pollution Awareness Week is an initiative of the Izaak Walton League of America aimed at increasing public awareness of nitrate pollution, including its sources, impacts, and associated risks.

Join them for 7 days of water monitoring, education, and advocacy!

Nitrate is a form of nitrogen that naturally occurs in the environment, but excessive amounts can become a pollutant. Common sources of nitrate pollution include lawn and agricultural fertilizers, animal waste, failing septic systems, and stormwater runoff. Learn more about stormwater pollution prevention here:

When excess nitrate enters local streams, rivers, and reservoirs, it can fuel the rapid growth of algae. These algae blooms reduce oxygen levels in the water, making it difficult for fish and other aquatic life to survive. Nitrate pollution can also affect drinking water quality when it reaches groundwater sources.

In Prince William County, stormwater runoff carries pollutants, including nitrates, from neighborhoods, farms, and developed areas into local waterways. These waterways eventually drain into the Occoquan Reservoir, a major source of drinking water for hundreds of thousands of Northern Virginia residents, and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay. Reducing nitrate pollution helps protect our local streams, preserve wildlife habitat, improve water quality, and safeguard our region's drinking water supply.

Learn more about stormwater pollution prevention here: Stormwater Pollution Reduction

Everyone can help reduce nitrate pollution by using fertilizers responsibly, picking up pet waste, maintaining septic systems, planting native vegetation, and preventing yard waste from washing into storm drains. Even small actions taken at home can make a meaningful difference in protecting Prince William County's water resources.

Learn More on Izaak Walton League's Website: Nitrate Pollution Awareness Week - Izaak Walton League of America