For the community of Hoback Junction, Wyoming, access to clean drinking water is not a new issue. But a recent investigation by the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality and its subsequent report is providing definitive answers to the source of contaminants. The primary concern for residents is the area’s drinking water and its high concentration of nitrates, which regularly exceed the Environmental Protection Agency’s maximum allowable nitrate concentration for human consumption of 10 milligrams per liter. The investigation examined the potential cause of elevated nitrates in groundwater in Hoback Junction, which has a population of around 1,600 people. According to the report, “it appears that the major known source of nitrates in groundwater is related to the density of domestic septic systems in the area.” Fertilizers, wildlife and livestock can also influence nitrate levels.
DEQ Reports Nitrates in Wyoming Community Linked to Septic Systems
Related Posts
Pollution plagues largest development in Town of Jackson’s history
The mega project has shocked the resort town and shows how gas stations’ toxic legacy complicates future development. The cleanup for a site like where Mogul wants to develop is...
Hoback Water System Update: County Supports Pre-Design With SPET Funds
Momentum continues to build for the future construction of the Hoback water system, most recently with the approval of pre-design funding from the County Commission. During the Dec. 17 meeting, Commissioners approved...
Hoback Junction’s Nitrate Pollution is a Septic Problem
Leaking septic systems in Hoback Junction are polluting drinking water. That’s according to findings from an investigation published last month by the Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality. “Based on the results of the data...
The time to act is now.
Donate Volunteer
Support Protect Our Water Jackson Hole today to help us preserve and protect the Snake River watershed for future generations. Take action through volunteering, donating, putting best-practices in place, and raising awareness among community members.
Get Involved