Also available is some information on irrigation water quality . The following information was taken from an NDSU Extension Service Report, Interpreting Your Water Test Report , November 1987.
Alkalinity is a measure of the capacity of water to neutralize acids.
The predominant chemical system present in natural waters is one where carbonates, bicarbonates and hydroxides are present. The bicarbonate ion is usually prevalent. However, the ratio of these ions is a function of pH, mineral composition, temperature and ionic strength. A water may have a low alkalinity rating but a relatively high pH or vice versa, so alkalinity alone is not of major importance as a measure of water quality. Alkalinity is not considered detrimental to humans but is generally associated with high pH values, hardness and excess dissolved solids .