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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 26, 2008
CONTACT
Marla Augustine, Communications and Legislative Services, (402) 471-4047, marla.augustine@dhhs.ne.gov
For a public service announcement from Jack Daniel, administrator
of the Office of Drinking Water and Environmental Health, go to http://www.dhhs.ne.gov/audio/
Free Water Testing Offered at Husker Harvest Days
Lincoln—Nebraskans with private water wells can have their drinking
water tested for nitrates during Husker Harvest Days in Grand Island on September 9, 10,
and 11.
To find out the nitrate level in the water they drink, well owners can bring a cup-size
sample of water in a clean bottle to the Natural Resources Tent at the northeast end of
the Husker Harvest grounds on Tuesday and Wednesday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., and on
Thursday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. There is no charge for the test, and they can get the
results while they wait.
Nitrates are a concern for infants under six months of age and pregnant women, as well
as anyone who has a weakened immune system. High levels of nitrates interfere with the
blood’s ability to carry oxygen and can cause "blue baby" syndrome.
Livestock, especially cattle, are also susceptible to nitrate poisoning, resulting in
lower milk production and loss of calves.
The testing is sponsored by the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services,
Division of Public Health. For more information, contact the Water Well Standards Program at (402) 471-0546.
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