YODER, Kan. — Nitrate levels remain above allowable limits in Rural Water District 101, which serves the Yoder area, according to Reno County officials.
The most recent water sample, collected Dec. 10, 2025, showed a nitrate concentration of 12 milligrams per liter. That exceeds the state and federal maximum contaminant level of 10 milligrams per liter for public water supply systems.
Officials say nitrate levels in water sources can fluctuate and may come from natural, industrial or agricultural sources, including septic systems and runoff.
Reno County continues to issue routine public notices for acute nitrate violations as required by the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The notices provide residents with information about nitrates in drinking water and notify customers that bottled water is available upon request for households with individuals considered at higher risk. Those groups include infants younger than 6 months, nursing mothers, pregnant women and others identified by a health care provider.
Rural Water District 101 will continue quarterly water sampling and public notifications as required by KDHE until the issue is resolved. Officials thanked residents for their patience.