City of Dodge City warns residents of possible high levels of nitrate in water

Dodge City, Kan.–According to a release from the City of Dodge City on Monday. A water sample collected on Monday, March 9, showed a nitrate level of 11 mg/l. This is above the federal nitrate standard, or maximum contaminant level (MCL), of 10 mg/L. A confirmation sample is being collected to determine if there is a nitrate problem with the water quality. Expect notification within the next 30 days on the results of the confirmation sample. They ask as a precaution, please follow the warning of the notice.

The City has provided tips in dealing with possible high nitrates in water.

• DO NOT GIVE THE WATER TO INFANTS. Infants below the age of six months who drink water containing nitrate in excess of the MCL could become seriously ill and, if untreated, may die. Symptoms include shortness of breath and blue baby syndrome. Nitrate is an acute toxin to infants less than six months of age. In infants, it can cause a condition known as methemoglobinemia, or “blue-baby syndrome” which can be fatal. The most obvious symptom is a bluish skin coloring, especially around the eyes and mouth. Other symptoms can include shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting and dizziness. An infant with bluish skin should be taken immediately to a medical facility for treatment. It is safe to bathe or shower in tap water with elevated nitrate levels.

• Water, juice, and formula for children under six months of age should not be prepared with tap water. Bottled water or other water low in nitrates should be used for infants until further notice.

• DO NOT BOIL THE WATER. Boiling, freezing, filtering, or letting water stand does not reduce the nitrate level. Excessive boiling can make the nitrates more concentrated, because nitrates remain behind when the water evaporates.

• Adults and children older than six months can drink the tap water (nitrate is a concern for infants because they cannot process nitrates in the same way adults can). However, if you are pregnant or have specific health concerns, you may wish to consult your doctor.

Nitrate in drinking water can come from natural, industrial, or agricultural sources (including septic systems and run-off). Levels of nitrate in drinking water can vary throughout the year. They are distributing this notice as a precautionary measure while additional testing is conducted. The wells associated with the affected sample were not running prior to the collection of the sample and were shut off after the sample was taken. The City of Dodge City is currently investigating the issue and will collect a follow-up sample to confirm whether this was an isolated occurrence or a recurring issue. The City expects to provide an update on the results within the next 30 days.

In the meantime, bottled water is being provided for vulnerable populations.

For more information, please contact Public Works Director at 620-225-8170 Or By Mail: 806 2nd Avs, PO Box 880, Dodge City, KS 67801