Nitrate is the most widespread groundwater contaminant in Idaho and the most common contaminant found in drinking water. Nitrates in drinking water are a concern because they can affect human health and the environment. It is estimated that 93% of nitrates in Idaho's water are from agricultural operations, where nitrates are added to increase yield and production. However, often plants cannot use all the nitrates that are applied and excess nitrates leach into groundwater or are washed into surface water. The Weiser area is the number one nitrate priority area in Idaho.

The Weiser Water Quality Protection Project is a partnership among government agencies, local farmers, and community leaders. The Soil Conservation District received funding to do a demonstration project. Partners include the Weiser River Soil Conservation District, Idaho Department of Agriculture, University of Idaho-Agricultural Extension Office, Natural Resources Conservation Service and local farmers. This partnership helps local farmers implement best management practices (BMPs) to reduce fertilizer use, conserve water, and minimize runoff. BMPs are then shared with other farmers throughout the area. BMPs include:

Monitoring techniques such as lysimeters, moisture sensors, and monitoring wells are used to collect data on the nitrogen content and water present in soils. Farmers use the data to make better decisions on when to irrigate, how much water to use, and when to apply fertilizer. For example, moisture sensors measure soil water content and have shown that adequate moisture may be available even if the area looks dry. As a result, farmers can conserve water and save money. One local farmer reported his highest onion yield since 1993 in the field using the monitoring techniques.

Sediment basins remove 65% to 75% of the sediment that would normally flow into surface water and are being tested by several farmers.

Information on this Web page represents examples of projects undertaken by the organizations only and does not constitute Departmental certification or approval of compliance at this or any other time with federal, state and/or local regulations, but is solely presented as an example of projects undertaken by organizations in order to prevent pollution and/or conserve resources.