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 5 benchmarks together — the OptimalRange form drives the primary score, while 4 guard(s) constrain the result.
Contributing Benchmarks
Evidence & Context
Optimal Range (Best Available Condition): Characterized by a dynamic pattern: concentrations of nitrate as nitrogen (NO3-N) should be <0.05 mg/L during baseflow conditions, reflecting effective riparian management. This is coupled with a tolerance for natural, short-duration flood pulses where concentrations may temporarily exceed 0.5 mg/L, demonstrating functional floodplain connectivity.
Water nitrate concentration as nitrogen (NO3-N) in water bodies within the specified biome and land use.
This benchmark represents the functional range of water nitrate concentrations in water bodies of the Arid Inland Floodplains & Ephemeral River Systems biome under Production Forestry land use in Australia. It reflects a dynamic natural pattern with low nitrate during baseflow and tolerance for short flood pulses, indicating effective riparian management and floodplain connectivity.
The benchmark is inferred from analogous systems and management principles due to no direct empirical data. The dynamic pattern reflects natural variability and sustainable management.
Sources (2)
accessed January 1, 1970, https.www.waterquality.gov.au/anz-guidelines/guideline-values/default/water-quality-toxicants/toxicants/nitrate-fresh-2025
View SourceEcological condition of central Australian arid-zone rivers - PubMed
View Source