In spring 1988, samples from several of the water-supply wells had large increases in nitrate concentrations. The baseline data were to be used to describe the source and extent of nitrate in ground water in and near Torrington, as well as provide initial data for trend analyses. The Town of Torrington is located in east-central Wyoming, about 10 miles from the Nebraska State line. The North Platte River flows through the southern part of Torrington, and several irrigation canals deliver water to the local area. The land use in the study area is both urban and agricultural.
Primary crops grown are corn, sugar beets, dry beans, hay, and small grains.
The surficial geology of the area in and around Torrington is primarily unconsolidated deposits of Quaternary age. These deposits generally are composed of sand and gravel and are as much as 200 feet thick. The deposits are hydraulically connected to the North Platte River in most places. The eight wells that currently supply water to the town are completed in these deposits. Maximum usage during the summer was 6.9 million gallons per day.