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 8 benchmarks together — the OptimalRange form drives the primary score, while 7 guard(s) constrain the result.
Evidence & Context
The optimal range for maintaining high ecological health is considered to be the natural background levels, aligning with the reference value, i.e., ²640.010 mg NOx-N/L, and extending up to ²640.015 mg NOx-N/L, consistent with the ANZECC (2000) default for SE Australian upland rivers in good condition.
Range of water nitrate concentrations (NOx-N) conducive to maintaining high environmental health in alpine/subalpine conservation areas.
Optimal range of water nitrate concentrations representing natural background in alpine/subalpine protected areas.
Reflects observed concentrations in pristine/reference alpine sites and aligns with ANZECC (2000) default trigger values for upland rivers.
Sources (2)
Characterising alpine peatland water quality on the Bogong High Plains, Victoria - Threatened Species Recovery Hub
View SourceNSW Alpine Resorts Environmental Performance Report 2020–21
View SourceSupporting Sources (1)
Additional references from the underlying research that informed this benchmark.
Toxicant default guideline values for aquatic ecosystem protection ...
View Source