DEQ requests permission to sample private wells in Ashton-Drummond nitrate priority area
May 24, 2023
ASHTON – The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Idaho Falls Regional Office is requesting permission to sample private wells within the Ashton-Drummond Nitrate Priority Area, which is known to be impacted by elevated nitrates in groundwater. DEQ’s priority will be to sample areas where aquifer flow directly contributes to local public drinking water sources. Nitrates in groundwater are a concern as elevated levels can prevent the body’s ability to use oxygen. Sensitive groups including infants under the age of six months are the most susceptible. The health-risk based federal drinking water standard for nitrate is 10 milligrams per liter.