Sources of nitrate to ground water

There are a multitude of sources of nitrate to ground waters. Nitrogen undergoes a complex series of biochemical, chemical, and physical reactions in soils and waters, and thus the source of nitrate in ground waters is often difficult or impossible to ascertain with any degree of certainty. However, highly contaminated ground waters often have local sources that can be controlled. Sources of nitrate most often linked with contamination problems include septic tanks, animal and human wastes, and commercial fertilizers.