NRD map shows rising nitrate levels in area drinking water

By Ron Burtz on Wednesday, November 13, 2024

Zones 5, 6, 11 all above acceptable nitrate levels for drinking water

  • This map of the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District published in September shows that nitrate levels in Zones 5, 6 and 11 have risen to the Phase III, with more than 10 ppm of nitrates. The area stretches from a few miles east of Aurora to south and east of Seward. Nitrate levels higher than 10 ppm in drinking water are considered to be unsafe, especially for the very young and the elderly.
    This map of the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District published in September shows that nitrate levels in Zones 5, 6 and 11 have risen to the Phase III, with more than 10 ppm of nitrates. The area stretches from a few miles east of Aurora to south and east of Seward. Nitrate levels higher than 10 ppm in drinking water are considered to be unsafe, especially for the very young and the elderly.

    A groundwater quality map released in September by the Upper Big Blue Natural Resources District (NRD) shows a disturbing trend. Most of the dozen zones within the district show rising levels of nitrates in water samples taken from the Ogallala Aquifer, and three zones in a large area stretching from a few miles east of Aurora to east and south of Seward are colored dark purple, indicating they ar…