Food & Water Watch published a report recently that raised concern about the elevated nitrate level in drinking water in Eastern Oregon. The contamination was attributed to farming practices related to concentrated animal feeding operations, also called factory farms. The issue of this journal highlights the importance to continue monitoring and controlling drinking water quality in regions with intensive farming.
Water Quality Monitoring: Its Importance
In addition to the perfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS), other contaminants such as nitrates can also pose a serious threat to health. Animal manure applied to agricultural soil in the east of Oregon may cause groundwater contamination by nitrates. To protect public health, the delicate balance between water resources and agriculture practices must be carefully managed.
Groundwater contamination and factory farms
Food & Water Watch’s report with its detailed maps identifies a relationship between areas classified as Groundwater Management Areas. The GWMAs include regions that are already struggling with groundwater contamination.
This report indicates that application of nitrogen rich animal manure to irrigation agriculture is a major contributor to contamination with nitrates. Nitrates are released into soil when excessive manure spray is used on the fields. This can contaminate nearby drinking water. The communities that rely on groundwater as their source of water are directly at risk.
Senate Bill 8
Senate Bill 80 is being considered by the Oregon Legislature to combat groundwater pollution. The bill would impose stricter rules on new permits issued for factory farms in designated GWMAs. This bill aims to mitigate health risks and limit pollution for communities living in designated GWMAs. This legislation aims to address the complicated relationship between local economics and environmental factors as well as the health of residents.
Effects on Health of Nitrate Contamination
National Library of Medicine published a study that highlights the rise in global nitrate concentrations in drinking waters, due largely to agricultural use of animal manure and inorganic fertilisers. Increased nitrate concentrations have been linked with a number of negative health effects.
- When infants receive high levels of nitrate via bottle feed, they develop a rare blood disease called Infant Methemoglobinemia.
- Increased cancer risk: Recent studies have suggested that there may be a link between exposure to high levels of nitrogen dioxide and cancer, particularly colorectal.
- Research suggests that nitrates may be associated with thyroid disease.
- Study shows link between neural tube defects and congenital disabilities
For the protection of public health, it is essential to monitor and regulate nitrate concentrations in drinking water.
The Issue: Voices of the People
Aimee Stein, Oregon organizer of Food & Water Watch emphasized on the fundamental right to drink clean water. She states that “Access to clean, safe water is a basic human right, yet for decades communities here in Oregon have been exposed to dangerous levels of nitrates in their drinking water… we can’t stop until polluters are held accountable, and every Oregonian has access to clean, safe drinking water.”
In addition, the National Library of Medicine’s findings highlight the possible health effects of nitrate consumption through drinking water. This issue must be addressed through the implementation of effective regulations and policies.
It is Time to Move Forward
A Senate Committee is reviewing Oregon’s Senate Bill 80. Food & Water Watch will advocate at the State Capitol for its passage later in the month.
To address nitrate pollution in drinking water, a holistic approach is required.
- Stricter regulation on agricultural practices: Implementing the best management practices when applying manure to reduce nitrate leakage.
- Monitoring the quality of water in groundwater: Testing regularly to identify and treat contamination as early as possible.
- Investing in technologies for water treatment: Develop and implement effective methods of removing nitrates.
- Engaging communities: Enabling local communities to be involved in the decision making processes related to management of water resources.
Oregon’s residents affected by intensive agriculture can be assured of safe drinking water if they take the initiative to do so.