ASSESSING POLICIES TO IMPROVE WATER QUALITY IN AGRICULTURAL LANDSCAPES

Abstract

In this report, the term “nitrate” refers to nitrate-nitrogen (NO3--N). Agricultural production depends on nutrient applications that supplement nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium to soils. However, residual nutrients from these applications may run off into surface water and cause eutrophication and algae blooms, or leach into groundwater and cause contamination. Excessive levels of nitrates in drinking water have also been linked to methaemoglobinaemia, or blue baby syndrome.1 Land and nutrient management policies and programs - which can be championed by governments and local watershed associations, conservation authorities and other