Story: Farming and the environment

Nitrogen in the Waikato River

Nitrogen in the Waikato River

The increasing nitrate levels in Lake Taupō and the lower reaches of the Waikato River is a major concern in the Waikato River catchment. Both are caused by nitrate from farmland getting into waterways that eventually reach the lake or river. Changes are proposed to correct this trend. Nitrate concentrations in the Waikato River between Taupō Gates and Tūākau Bridge increased eightfold from 2002 to 2006.

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Source: Environment Waikato

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How to cite this page:

Julia Haggerty and Hugh Campbell, 'Farming and the environment - Clean green solutions', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/map/17918/nitrogen-in-the-waikato-river (accessed 19 April 2024)

Story by Julia Haggerty and Hugh Campbell, published 24 Nov 2008