Nitrate Testing

The Benton SWCD offers FREE nitrate testing of your well water and only takes a few minutes to complete.

What is Nitrate?

Nitrate (NO3) is a naturally occurring chemical made of nitrogen and oxygen. Nitrate is found in air, soil, water, and plants. Much of the nitrate in our environment comes from decomposition of plants and animal wastes. People also add nitrate to the environment in the form of fertilizers.

Why Test For Nitrates?

Nitrate is the most common pollutant found in rural wells in Benton County. Nitrate in drinking water presents a serious problem for infants up to about six months of age, and for pregnant women. Too much nitrate in infants can reduce the amount of oxygen carried by blood. This is known as "Blue Baby Syndrome."

How Much Nitrate is Too Much?

The state Health Risk Limit for nitrate is 10 mg/L of nitrate-nitrogen, which provides newborns with reasonable protection against blue baby syndrome. This level is mandatory for all public water systems, and recommended for private wells.

How Do I Test My Well For Nitrates?

Step 1. Allow your faucet to run for approximately 5 minutes.

Step 2. Collect a sample of water in a new, re-sealable, plastic bag.

Step 3. Bring the sample to the Benton SWCD office to be analyzed for nitrates. The sample must be kept cool during transport (a small cooler works well).

For more information, visit the Minnesota Department of Health Website, or click here