Federal water monitoring extends to thousands of public water systems, and in Upperco, Maryland, that tracking has turned up Nitrate — the detection is logged in the EPA compliance record and reflects samples collected under routine Safe Drinking Water Act reporting requirements.

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14

Nitrate in Upperco Tap Water

Nitrate has been detected in Upperco, Maryland drinking water at a maximum level of 10 ppb — below the EPA MCL of 10 mg/L (as nitrogen).

This analysis covers 6,600 residents across 1 ZIP code in Upperco.

Upperco's overall water quality grade is D (40/100).

Is Nitrate in Upperco Water Safe?

Nitrate was detected in Upperco water but currently falls within EPA limits. However, some health organizations argue the EPA MCL may not be protective enough.

If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis or ion exchange filter can reduce nitrate levels further.

Nitrate Levels by ZIP Code

Average nitrate level across Upperco: 10 ppb

Health Effects of Nitrate

• Methemoglobinemia ("blue baby syndrome") in infants under 6 months
• Increased risk of colorectal and bladder cancer (long-term)
• Thyroid disease from chronic exposure
• Possible reproductive effects

Health risk severity: High. Governed by the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations.

How Nitrate Gets Into Drinking Water

• Agricultural fertilizer runoff
• Animal feedlot operations and manure
• Septic system leachate
• Urban stormwater and wastewater discharge

What to Do About Nitrate in Upperco Water

1. Reverse osmosis is the most effective method for nitrate removal
2. Ion exchange systems designed for nitrate can also work
3. Standard carbon filters do NOT remove nitrate
4. Boiling water increases nitrate concentration — never boil for nitrate

Look for filters certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 for nitrate removal.

Related

• Nitrate — National Overview
• Nitrate in Maryland
• Maryland Water Quality
• Upperco Water Quality
• Check Your ZIP Code