Nitrogen, in the forms of nitrate, nitrite, or ammonium, is a nutrient that is required for plant growth. Although nitrogen is naturally abundant in the environment, it is also introduced via nitrogen fertilizers applied to yards and gardens to supplement the soil’s supply and stimulate plant growth. The typical commercial fertilizer is made of petroleum and is very water-soluble (it dissolves quickly when wet). However, the soil cannot absorb it quickly and plants cannot use it quickly, so much of it washes away.

   Excess nitrogen in the environment causes two major problems:

   1) Excess nitrogen causes excess growth of algae.

   When excess algae are present (algal bloom), oxygen can be depleted from the water. Without oxygen, aquatic animals cannot breathe – leading to a decrease in animal abundance and diversity and limiting our use of the water for fishing, swimming, and boating.

   – Excess algae also block light from penetrating into to the water. This reduces the growth of plants, such as eelgrass, that provide vital underwater food and shelter.

   2) Too much nitrate in drinking water can be harmful to young infants or young livestock.

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