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Nitrate is a naturally-occurring nitrogen compound. It may be present in surface water from a number of sources including runoff from agricultural lands where manure and/or chemical fertilizers have been applied and the discharge of treated sewage from municipal wastewater treatment plants. Nitrate is an important plant nutrient but too much can contribute to eutrophication – excessive growth of aquatic plants and algae. Nitrate is also a concern for drinking water supplies as high levels of nitrate can be toxic.