Commercial fertilizer is a major source of nitrogen to soils and ground and surface waters. Locate fertilizer storage areas downslope and at least 400 feet awayfrom drinking water sources to provide reasonable assurance source water will not be contaminated. Separation from the well should be greater in areas of sand or fractured bedrock. Keep fertilizer storage areas locked and provide signs or labels identifying the cabinet or building as a fertilizer storage area. Fertilizers should be stored in sound, properly labeled, original containers. Provide pallets to keep large drums or bags off the floor, and store dry products separate from liquids to prevent wetting from spills. Store fertilizer separately from pesticides. Use containment for large bulk tanks to contain spills. Conduct mixing and loading on impermeable surfaces away from drinking water sources; immediately clean up any spills. Properly recycle or dispose of fertilizer containers. 

Following these management proceduresgreatly reduces the possibility of drinking water contamination.