Nitrate Dynamics in Fall Creek, New York
Authors:
- Arthur H. JohnsonAJArthur H. Johnson
- David R. BouldinDBDavid R. Bouldin
- Edward A. GoyetteEGEdward A. Goyette
- Anne M. HedgesAHAnne M. Hedges
- 1 October 1976
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Wiley in Journal of Environmental Quality
- Vol. 5 (4) , 386-391
Abstract
Nitrate loss from a 330‐km2 rural watershed in central New York was monitored over a 31‐month period. Seasonal NO3‐N patterns were well defined with highest levels in the winter and lowest levels in the summer resulting from accumulation of NO3‐N in the soil profile during the growing season and leaching during the winter months. Stream water at the outlet of the watershed studied is used as a source of drinking water for some 20,000 people. Nitrate‐N concentrations at the drinking water intake currently do not exceed 3 mg/liter. Human activities affected NO3‐N levels, with dairying and sewage being the major contributors. If agriculture is expanded to its maximum acreage, keeping the present ratio of corn/hay/pasture/people, NO3‐N levels at the drinking water intake will not exceed present standards for drinking water.Keywords
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