Recent rain and snow events have led to flooding in much of the area which may have impacted domestic wells. The Upper Niobrara White Natural Resources District (UNWNRD) is encouraging rural residents with concerns, to have their wells tested for both nitrates and bacteria to ensure that the drinking water is safe for consumption.

“The flooding in the area creates the potential for both bacteria and nitrate contamination in domestic wells.  The UNWNRD is equipped to assist the rural residents in the District with this potential hazard,” stated Haley Anders, UNWNRD Water Resources Manager.

Through the Domestic Water Sampling Program, the UNWNRD is able to test any domestic well within the District, free of charge.  Bacteria testing is done at the NRD office with results in twenty-four hours while nitrate testing is sent out to another facility with results in five days.  Nitrate levels under ten parts per million (ppm) are considered safe for consumption while bacterial contamination of any kind is considered unsafe for consumption.  The UNWNRD provides cost share assistance to residents with nitrate or bacterial contamination to ensure their water is safe to drink.

Any residents with concerns about water contamination due to flooding in the area, are encouraged to contact the Upper Niobrara White NRD to schedule an appointment to have their water tested. Please call Haley Anders at (308) 432-6190 for more information on how you can protect your drinking water.