Nitrate Concerns in Champaign County: Understanding Local Aquifer 112OTSH Data

Local government sampling of groundwater in Champaign County focuses on aquifer 112OTSH. This data offers valuable context but does not reveal the nitrate concentration of any individual household well. Understanding what the record shows, what it does not, and how to respond helps homeowners make informed decisions about testing and treatment.

Observing Seasonal and Multi-Year Variation in Area Nitrate Levels

Sampling dates span over nine years, from mid-2011 to late 2020

The 12 samples from 11 wells across the area were collected between July 2011 and October 2020. This timeframe allows insight into nitrate levels across multiple seasons and years, reflecting the variability due to weather, farming practices, and other factors.

Detected nitrate concentrations vary widely across sampled wells

Measured inorganic nitrogen (nitrate and nitrite) ranged from 0.49 mg/L to 11.7 mg/L, with a median value of 5.54 mg/L. Nine measurements were above the reporting limit; three were below it, indicating variability within the aquifer.

Distinguishing Aesthetic Secondary Standards from Federal Health-Based Limits

The federal MCL for nitrate is set at 10.0 mg/L as a health-based guideline

Among the area samples, one exceeded this health-based maximum contaminant level (MCL). Exceedance of this level should prompt homeowners to conduct private water testing and consider treatment options.

Lower nitrate concentrations do not imply an absence of concern

Values below the MCL are not violations; rather, they represent concentrations where health effects are considered unlikely. Secondary standards related to taste or staining do not apply to nitrate.

Maintenance Rhythm for Fleck Nitrate & Nitrite (Well) Filter Systems

Filter systems ship ready to configure for household use

The Fleck Nitrate & Nitrite Filter is designed for private wells with nitrate concerns. It is supplied ready for setup without requiring specialized services.

Regular monitoring and media replacement ensure continued effectiveness

To maintain optimal nitrate removal, periodic checks of water quality and scheduled media replacement based on usage and manufacturer recommendations are essential.

Influence of Sampling Depth, Well Depth, and Water Source Type on Nitrate Levels

Wells sampled in Champaign County ranged from 20 to 87 feet deep

Shallower wells might exhibit different nitrate levels compared to deeper wells due to surface contamination sources and soil characteristics.

Variability in nitrate is expected based on water source characteristics

Groundwater from different parts of the aquifer or wells tapping varying depths may have distinct nitrate concentrations, underscoring the need for individual water testing.

Additional Questions Commercial or Industrial Operators Should Consider

Higher water usage rates may alter treatment system sizing and media life

Commercial operations typically require assessment of flow rates and treatment capacity beyond household considerations.

Regulatory reporting and compliance might differ significantly

Industry users should consult local and federal guidelines relevant to their specific water use and discharge situations.

Comparing Champaign County Nitrate Data with Neighboring Counties Without Overreading

Similar sampling methods ensure comparability but local factors differ

Adjacent counties might have varying nitrate ranges due to land use, geology, and agricultural patterns. Comparisons should be made cautiously, respecting these context differences.

Area medians provide a general benchmark, not precise individual well predictions

Homeowners should not assume their water nitrate level matches the area median or range but should confirm through testing.

This summary reflects the scope of U.S. Geological Survey groundwater sampling data for nitrate and nitrite in Champaign County's aquifer 112OTSH, covering multiple wells sampled over nearly a decade. The data source is publicly available at the USGS monitoring location 401237083485800 for further review.

Where this information comes from

Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2020-10-14. These figures describe groundwater sampled in this area. They are not a test of any individual private well - only a test of that well can establish its own water.

On record: U.S. Geological Survey sampling of Inorganic nitrogen (nitrate and nitrite) in the 112OTSH aquifer (Champaign County): 12 results from 11 wells, median 5.54 mg/L, range 0.49-11.7 mg/L; 1 above a health-based federal MCL (federal MCL 10.0 mg/L)