Nitrate pollution doesn’t get the headlines it deserves – but it’s one of the most widespread water quality problems affecting communities across the country, including right here in the Upper Ohio River Basin. The Izaak Walton League of America is working to change that, and they’re inviting organizations like H2O to help spread the word.
Nitrate Pollution Awareness Week runs July 26 through August 1, and planning is already well underway. The week is designed to highlight where nitrate pollution comes from, what it does to our water and our health, and – most importantly – what people can do about it.
What’s Happening During the Week
The Izaak Walton League has lined up four webinars from water quality experts, opportunities to advocate for real solutions to nitrate pollution, and a raffle – anyone who participates during the week is automatically entered to win prizes.
It’s a low-barrier entry point for anyone who wants to learn more or get involved but isn’t sure where to start. Whether you’re a longtime watershed advocate or just starting to pay attention to what’s in your water, there’s something here for you.
Resources Available Now
The official Nitrate Pollution Awareness Week website is live at iwla.org/nitrate-pollution-awareness-week (shortlink: www.iwla.org/nitrateawareness). Webinar registration is open now – you can sign up at iwla.org/nitrate-pollution-awareness-week-learn.
A media kit is also available via Google Drive, with logos, graphics, and sample text ready to drop into newsletters and social media posts. If you’re part of an organization that wants to amplify Nitrate Pollution Awareness Week in your own networks, the media kit is the easiest place to start. Access the media kit here.
Why This Matters for Our Region
Nitrate contamination is a serious concern in agricultural and mixed-use watersheds – and the tri-state region covered by the H2O Water Network is no exception. Elevated nitrate levels in drinking water sources have been linked to health risks, particularly for infants and pregnant women, and excess nitrate runoff contributes to algae blooms and depleted oxygen levels in rivers and streams.
Events like Nitrate Pollution Awareness Week help build the kind of public awareness and policy momentum that leads to real change. H2O encourages partner organizations and community members to participate, share the resources, and keep the conversation going.
Questions about the event can be directed to the Izaak Walton League of America through their website at iwla.org/nitrate-pollution-awareness-week.
