By Reno County Kansas
RENO COUNTY, Kan. (September 9, 2024, Revised from April 25, 2024) — Nitrate levels have continued to be above allowable limits in Rural Water District 101, which serves the Yoder area. The last nitrate level test was collected on September 3, 2024.The level tested at 11.0 mg/L, which exceeds the Kansas and Federal (EPA) maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 mg/L for public water supply systems. The nitrate levels in water resources have fluctuated in many areas which come from natural, industrial, or agricultural sources (including septic systems and run-off).
A test performed on August 12, 2020, resulted in a level above the maximum. Reno County received a precautionary public notice for acute nitrate violation from KDHE. A notification was then sent to the Yoder residents educating them about nitrates in drinking water. Subsequent notices were sent informing residents that bottled water will be provided, upon request, to any household with members at increased risk from the nitrates, such as infants under 6 months, nursing mothers, pregnant women, and other at- risk customers as identified by a health care provider.
The district will continue the KDHE required quarterly samples and public notifications until this issue is resolved. Reno County appreciates your patience.
