The effect of man on his environment is no longer of concern solely to conservationists, ecologists, and earth scientists. In the view of many, the issue has become one that concerns the health of all of us now living and the survival of our children. Many current statements on this problem, however, are based on atypical information or on no fact at all. This expressed anxiety has, on the other hand, moved scientists to assess facts at hand and to strive to obtain needed information on the changing environment. One aspect of this problem is the effect of fertilizer use on water that drains through or off fertilized soils and ultimately to underground and surface water supplies.