Nitrates directive Results of monitoring programmes (data 1992-2009)

Twenty years after the Nitrates directive became applicable and in compliance with European commission (EC) requirements, France has completed a series of five monitoring campaigns on nitrate concentrations in water. The campaigns evaluated the effects of action programmes and reviewed the boundaries of zones considered vulnerable to nonpoint-source pollution caused by nitrates from agricultural sources. In addition, to ensure monitoring continuity, a yearly report is also produced on nitrate measurements for surface waters and groundwater carried out in the water-quality monitoring networks.