# Mitigate Nitrate Contamination Levels and Explore Solutions through Sustainable Farming - Link: https://rd2.co.nz/mitigate-nitrate-contamination-levels-and-explore-solutions-through-sustainable-farming/ - Published: 2024-02-14T06:07:12+00:00 - Author: RSF Admin Growers face various challenges, from unpredictable weather to governmental changes around industry standards, export regulation targets, and new research. Recently, Greenpeace released an article which included an interactive ‘Know Your Nitrate’ map, revealing nitrate contamination levels in New Zealand’s drinking water, region by region. The map highlights the extent of nitrate contamination across New Zealand, particularly in rural areas and the importance of monitoring nitrate levels in drinking water. Given that high levels of nitrate in drinking water is a direct threat to human health, it’s a good time to consider how to  take action and mitigate the levels in your area by utilising sustainable farming practices to reduce leaching and pollution of waterways. ## High Nitrate Levels pose human health risk Nitrate contamination in drinking water poses a significant risk to human health, as highlighted by the ‘Know Your Nitrate’ map.  The higher the nitrate contamination, the greater the health risk. High levels can be associated with risks for blue baby syndrome, while highly exceeded levels are associated with reproductive risks for pregnant women and a 76% increase in bowel cancer.  ## The Connection Between Farming and High Nitrate Levels The relationship between farming practices and high nitrate levels plays a crucial role in our environment and landscape health. It is a common factor that certain farming methods and soil types contribute to the elevated nitrate levels in our soil and waterways.  Nitrogen is a vital component for crop growth, and it is applied through various forms of fertilisers. The excessive use of nitrogen-based fertilisers can lead to nitrate runoff, contaminating our waterways and posing risks to our ecosystem and human well-being.  The connection between farming practices and high nitrate levels is crucial to acknowledge. The products growers are applying to crops have a significant impact on our country and people. We are proud to work with growers right across New Zealand to optimise their crop yields while also prioritising environmental impacts and sustainable farming.  At Roots, Shoots & Fruits, we want to alert our growers to two effective and environmentally friendly products for a sustainable solution that addresses nutrient loss and leaching issues – Mobilizer and Humax.   ## Addressing Nutrient Loss and Leaching with Mobilizer and Humax  One common challenge for commercial growers is the loss of valuable nutrients from the soil due to excess rain, leading to leaching, reduced yields and environmental concerns. To overcome these challenges, we recommend implementing sustainable farming practices by increasing organic matter levels in your soil and through the addition of products that help to produce healthier crops, grow soil and nurture the environment, whilst ultimately increasing yields and quality. We recommend two products, Mobilizer and Humax, here is why:  1. Unlock Your Soil’s Potential with Mobilizer  Mobilizer is a game-changer with a remarkable Cation Exchange Capacity (CEC) of approximately 1400 mEg. Whilst the average CEC of New Zealand soil is between 5 – 25 mEg. This extraordinarily high CEC efficiently retains valuable resources within the soil, promoting increased production and minimising leaching into waterways. Compatible with Nitrogen and other fertilisers, Mobilizer enhances nutrient uptake, leading to healthier crops and improved overall yields. 2. Nourishing Your Soil For Sustainable Growth with Humax  Humax, a form of **liquid humates**, addresses nutrient loss and leaching issues by promoting efficient mineral uptake. With its unique formula, Humax contributes to soil health and fertility, fostering a sustainable farming environment. By using Humax alongside fertilisers, growers can enhance nutrient retention, mitigate environmental impact, and achieve more resilient crops.   Including **liquid humates** like Humax in your soil management practices can further enhance these benefits. In the face of environmental concerns and the need for sustainable farming, commercial farmers must prioritise crop health, community well-being, and environmental sustainability.  Checking nitrate levels, improving soil organic matter levels, and adopting innovative solutions like Mobilizer and **liquid humates** such as Humax are crucial steps towards achieving these goals. By staying informed, implementing sustainable farming practices, and using cutting- edge products, growers can contribute to healthier nitrate levels for all New Zealanders. ![KLzBPbP2hB7qv7bG pD a9LYEGTzW7PbtZX0qrfOe X5opu7 uE2DIdfcqHGqrebrOIgSDA0yZTkCgMsz9TyoMF5CtYQp siB69EDlB YywA9vA0QUy8kilF8DuhgePTsOpQnPnAVHiT0F stwBsUw](https://lh7-us.googleusercontent. com/KLzBPbP2hB7qv7bG_pD-a9LYEGTzW7PbtZX0qrfOe-X5opu7_uE2DIdfcqHGqrebrOIgSDA0yZTkCgMsz9TyoMF5CtYQp_siB69EDlB_YywA9vA0QUy8kilF8DuhgePTsOpQnPnAVHiT0F- stwBsUw "Mitigate Nitrate Contamination Levels and Explore Solutions through Sustainable Farming 1") View the nitrate map [here](https://maps.greenpeace.org/maps/aotearoa/know-your-nitrate/?id=4).