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Fact Sheet 1995–244


Pesticides in Ground Water

By U.S. Geological Survey


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Abstract
Pesticides in the Hydrologic System
Importance of Ground Water
Historic Study Efforts
Pesticides Found in Ground Water
Detection Frequencies in Relation to Use
Influence of Hydrogeologic Factors
Effects of Agricultural Practice and Well Construction
Influence of Hydrogeologic Factors
Prediction of Pesticide Occurrence
Significance to Water Quality

Abstract

Current Understanding of Distribution and Major Influences

This report summarizes a comprehensive analysis of existing information on national and regional patterns of pesticides in the atmosphere and major influences on their sources and transport. It is one of a four-part series that synthesizes current knowledge and understanding of pesticides in water resources of the nation as part of the National Water-Quality Assessment.

Highlights

  • Over 300 studies of pesticide occurrences in ground water and soils have been carried out during the past 30 years.
  • Pesticides from every major chemical class have been detected in ground water
  • Pesticides are commonly present in low concentrations in ground water beneath agricultural areas, but seldom exceed water-quality standards
  • Little information is available on pesticide occurrence beneath non-agricultural land, such as residential areas and golf courses, despite application rates that often exceed those for most crops.
  • Frequencies of pesticide detection are almost always low in low-use areas, but vary widely in areas of high use.
  • Pesticide levels in ground water show pronounced seasonal variablity in agricultural areas, with maximum values often following spring applications.
  • Factors most strongly associated with increased likelihood of pesticide occurrence in wells are high pesticide use, high recharge by either precipitation or irrigation, and shallow, inadequately sealed, or older wells.


Suggested citation

U.S. Geological Survey, 1996, Pesticides in ground water: current understanding of distribution and major influences: U.S. Geological Survey Fact Sheet 1995-244, 4 p., https://pubs.usgs.gov/fs/1995/0244.

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