Water Nitrate
Benchmark Value
Scoring Curve
This curve shows how a field measurement for this indicator would score across all available benchmark forms in this context. The scoring engine uses 10 benchmarks together — the OptimalRange form drives the primary score, while 9 guard(s) constrain the result.
Evidence & Context
For soft water, the draft ANZG DGV for 95% species protection is 1.1 mg/L N.2 This value is therefore established as the upper detrimental threshold.
Upper detrimental threshold for nitrate concentration based on ANZG 95% species protection level for soft water
This benchmark indicates the upper detrimental nitrate concentration threshold to protect 95% of aquatic species in soft water tropical rainforest catchments.
Exceeding this value indicates a high risk of chronic toxicity and adverse ecological effects, including to sensitive fish, invertebrates, and other aquatic organisms.
Sources (1)
Using the ANZECC Guidelines and Water Quality Objectives in NSW, accessed July 21, 2025,
View SourceSupporting Sources (31)
Additional references from the underlying research that informed this benchmark.
and the Great Barrier Reef,
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View SourceLand-based run-off - Reef Authority,
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View SourceManaging riparian lands to improve water quality: optimising nitrate removal via denitrification - CSIRO Research Publications Repository,
View SourceNitrate retention under sugarcane in wet tropical Queensland deep soil profiles, accessed July 18, 2025
View SourceNitrification (DMPP) and urease (NBPT) inhibitors had no effect on pasture yield, nitrous oxide emissions, or nitrate leaching under irrigation in a hot-dry climate - CSIRO Publishing,
View SourceOur Plan for the Upper Herbert,
View SourceQuestion 3.4 What are the primary biophysical drivers of anthropogenic sediment and particulate nutrient export to the GBR and how have these drivers changed over time? - CSIRO Research Publications Repository - Publication,
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View SourceSediments and nutrients in north Queensland tropical streams: changes with agricultural development and pristine condition status (Technical Report No. 62, Australian Rainforest CRC, 2006)
View Source