Statistical analysis of nitrate concentrations from the River Frome (Dorset) for the period 1965–76

SUMMARY. Statistical analysis has been carried out on 11 years (1965–75) weekly data of nitrate concentrations and discharge values from the R. Frome (Dorset). The results have shown a trend over the 11‐year period with nitrate concentrations increasing by 0.11 mg NO 3‐ N 1 −1 per year. A predictive model for nitrate concentrations for 1976 was made and even though discharge conditions were extreme, the mean predicted nitrate concentration of 3.37 ± 0.136 mgNO 3‐ N1 −1 was very close to the observed mean nitrate concentration of 3.44mgN0 3‐ N1 −1 .