The rural Story County town of Slater recently announced its city water supply has high levels of nitrate, warning residents not to give tap water to infants under six months old.
The town reported nitrate levels of 13.7 mg/L on Sept. 2. The advisory level is 10 mg/L.
Nitrates are natural contaminants that can be a result of agricultural and human-related sources. They can pose a health risk to infants under six months old, potentially causing a condition known as blue baby syndrome. This condition can be fatal.
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Jacklyn Gautsch, an environmentalist specialist senior with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, processes water samples at Backbone Lake Wednesday, July 17, 2024 near Dundee, Iowa.
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The town also advises that the water may be unsafe for pregnant women and for cooking.
Slater is approximately 15 miles east of Ames and has a population of about 1,600 people.
Slater's public works director said the town's water is sourced from groundwater wells.
Slater's public works director said the town's water is safe for adults and children over six months old and can be used for bathing and washing clothes.
However, the town advises residents not to boil the water to make it safe, as boiling does not remove nitrates. The town also recommends flushing the water lines by using cold water taps for several minutes.
In a Sept. 2 announcement, the town said it was working with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources to address the issue.
Water testing will continue until the town can confirm that nitrate levels are below the advisory level. The water will not be considered safe to drink until the DNR approves it.
Slater's drinking water is sourced from groundwater wells.
The town said all residents should use bottled water for drinking and cooking until further notice.
This report was syndicated from USA Today Network via Reuters Connect.
