Story perspectives

60 Million U.S. Drink Nitrate-Laced Water, EPA Standards Outdated

4/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Environmental Working Group analysis says 60 million Americans receive drinking water with nitrate linked to large-scale farming, calling EPA standards outdated.
Between 2021-2023, 6,114 water systems serving about 62 million people recorded nitrate >=3 mg/L.
Researchers say nitrate exposure below the EPA’s 10 mg/L limit is linked to cancers and infant “blue-baby” syndrome, with health costs of $250 million-$1.5 billion.
Minnesota’s rule uses buffer zones and fertilizer limits but excludes private wells and manure-derived pollution.

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Story summary

The Environmental Working Group analysis says 60 million Americans receive drinking water with nitrate linked to large-scale farming, calling EPA standards outdated.
Between 2021-2023, 6,114 water systems serving about 62 million people recorded nitrate >=3 mg/L.
Researchers say nitrate exposure below the EPA’s 10 mg/L limit is linked to cancers and infant “blue-baby” syndrome, with health costs of $250 million-$1.5 billion.
Minnesota’s rule uses buffer zones and fertilizer limits but excludes private wells and manure-derived pollution.