To test the hypothesis, a suitable site was selected. The parameters were that the water flow was moderate or slow, a shallow pond was part of the water way, and the amount of vegetation was moderate. Collection points were selected based on possible point sources such as pipes and accessibility.

The nitrate concentration was tested using an Inquest testing kit. Samples were collected and 0.5 ml of sample was place in a sample tube. Then 0.5 ml of test solution was added. The tube was then stoppered and shaken. The sample was left to sit for 3 minutes and then a color comparison was made with the enclosed color chart.