Yakima Nitrate Project

The LYV is an agricultural powerhouse, with a diverse group of crops such as apples, cherries, corn silage, triticale, grapes, and alfalfa driving production in the area. Growing this abundant and local food requires fertilizer and farming at commercial scale, including use of nitrogen fertilizers which are vital to crop growth. Nitrogen is also a tricky nutrient to keep on target, and can contribute nitrate pollution to groundwater when not carefully managed.
 
In 2018, WSDA conducted a Nitrate Availability Assessment study to provide a scientific baseline estimate of the amount of nitrogen potentially available for loss to groundwater from different sources within the LYV’s Ground Water Management Area (GWMA). The study found that agriculture plays the lead role in reducing nitrate contamination. Of the total, 64% was estimated to be associated with irrigated agricultural crop production including crops tree fruit, animal forage, and others. 31% was estimated to be associated with animal feeding operations, and the remaining 5% by residential, commercial, industrial land municipal sources. Efficient nitrogen management is essential for ensuring sustainable agriculture while protecting the environment and agriculture is key to the effort.
 

Nitrogen is essential for crop growth, but when applied incorrectly or in excess, it can leach into groundwater, becoming a pollutant that poses risks to public health and the environment. Effective nitrate management means applying the right amount of nitrogen, at the right time, in the right place, and from the right source.

Key strategies for managing nitrogen include:

• Applying fertilizer at agronomic rates for the crop being grown.
• Irrigation management to prevent over application of water, which can carry nitrogen deeper into the soil and groundwater.
• Monitoring and adjusting nutrient management practices based on soil conditions and crop requirements.

By focusing on fertilizer application rates, timing, placement, method and monitoring, growers can reduce the risk of nitrate loss, reduce costs, and maybe even improve crop yields. Proactive and careful nutrient management practices made now can protect public health and natural resources, save money and reduce regulatory burden.
 

Efficient irrigation is critical to minimizing nitrate loss in the LYV. The region’s reliance on irrigation for crop production means that how water is applied can significantly impact the movement of nitrogen through the soil.
If irrigation is not managed properly, it can drive nitrate leaching into the groundwater. However, small improvements in irrigation efficiency—such as adjusting water schedules, using the right amount of water, and using modern irrigation technologies—can have a significant impact on both water conservation and groundwater protection.

Growers who improve irrigation practices not only help protect the region’s water resources but also save money by reducing water and energy use, lowering pumping costs, and enhancing the overall sustainability of their operations.