What 'detected', 'median' and 'range' Mean in the Sampling Record on This Page
The U.S. Geological Survey collected nitrate data from 16 wells in Bernalillo County’s aquifer 112SNTFU between May 2013 and January 2020, resulting in 358 sample results. Out of these, nitrate was detected in 174 samples and not detected above the reporting limit in 184 samples. The median nitrate concentration measured was 0.7365 milligrams per liter (mg/L), and individual sample results ranged from 0.042 to 8.28 mg/L. In this context, "detected" means nitrate was measurable by their instruments, but it does not indicate a problem by itself. The median represents the middle value of all measurements, while the range shows the lowest and highest concentrations found among the sampled wells.
What the Measured Range Means Against the Relevant Federal Standard, and What It Does Not Mean
It is important to understand that none of the nitrate results in this data set exceeded any federal nitrate threshold for drinking water. Federal standards are designed to protect health, and the fact that all samples were below these limits indicates no regulatory concern in this area’s tested wells. However, the presence of nitrate—even at levels below limits—can affect water taste or interact with household plumbing over extended periods. This data does not represent nitrate concentrations in your specific well or home water; only direct testing of your water can confirm your actual nitrate level.
How Many Samples and Wells Stand Behind the Figures, and What a Small Sample Means
This record is based on 16 separate wells sampled multiple times for a detailed total of 358 results, with well depths ranging from 100 to 1,630 feet. This sampling density provides a good overview of nitrate conditions in Bernalillo County’s 112SNTFU aquifer but does not define any individual well’s water quality. A smaller number of samples or wells would increase uncertainty, but this data set is comprehensive enough to observe general conditions. Variations in nitrate levels can occur because of local factors, so relying solely on area data carries risk when deciding household water treatment.
Maintenance Rhythm of the Documented Technology in Plain Terms
For residences concerned about nitrate, the Pentair Nitrate & Nitrite (Well) Filter system is designed to reduce these constituents when present at levels warranting treatment. This system ships ready to configure and requires routine attention to maintain effectiveness. Maintenance mainly consists of scheduled filter media replacement according to the manufacturer’s guidelines, typically on a yearly or biennial basis depending on water quality and usage. Following the recommended rhythm ensures continuous nitrate reduction without interruption.
How Public-System Records Differ from Private-Well Testing in What They Establish
Publicly available nitrate data like the USGS record covers wells serving the broader Bernalillo County aquifer system but does not replace testing your private water supply. Public system records track general groundwater quality trends and regulatory compliance but cannot confirm your household’s nitrate level. Private well owners should obtain laboratory tests of their own water regularly to detect changes or identify issues. Only such direct tests enable informed decisions about treatment needs and technology selection tailored to the actual water supply.
What You Should NOT Conclude From Area Data
Do not assume that nitrate concentrations found in these sampled wells apply to your individual well or home water. No violation or unsafe condition is indicated by any detection or level below federal limits shown here. Only your own water analysis can accurately establish nitrate presence and concentration. If testing shows nitrate levels differing from area medians or ranges, treatment options such as the Pentair Nitrate & Nitrite (Well) Filter can address those specific conditions effectively. Keep in mind area data serves as a useful reference point but not a substitute for personal water testing and assessment.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2020-01-09. 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 Nitrate in the 112SNTFU aquifer (Bernalillo County): 358 results from 16 wells, median 0.7365 mg/L, range 0.042-8.28 mg/L; none above any federal threshold
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