Exceeds EPA Limit Nitrate EXCEEDS EPA LIMIT

Nitrate in West Falmouth, MA Drinking Water

Nitrate data for West Falmouth, Massachusetts · 97,551 residents · 1 ZIP code

Water quality records for West Falmouth, Massachusetts show Nitrate detections on file — a finding that places it among the contaminants worth tracking for this area.

10 ppb
Max Level Detected
10 ppb
Average Level
10 mg/L (as nitrogen)
EPA MCL
High
Health Risk
Reverse Osmosis or Ion Exchange
Best Filter Method

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-04-05

Nitrate in West Falmouth Tap Water

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

This analysis covers 97,551 residents across 1 ZIP code in West Falmouth.

West Falmouth's overall water quality grade is D (50/100).

Is Nitrate in West Falmouth Water Safe?

Nitrate levels in parts of West Falmouth exceed the EPA MCL of 10 mg/L (as nitrogen). The EPA requires water systems to take corrective action when this limit is exceeded.

If you live in an affected ZIP code, consider installing a reverse osmosis or ion exchange filter certified under NSF 53 / NSF 58 and testing your water independently.

Nitrate Levels by ZIP Code

ZIP Code Nitrate Level EPA Limit Status
02574 10 ppm 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) OK
02574 10 ppm 10 mg/L (as nitrogen) OK

Average nitrate level across West Falmouth: 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 West Falmouth 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.

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