WORDEN – Officials in Worden and Ballantine issued Monday a drinking water warning after testing showed high levels of nitrate.
Infants under six months old should not drink the water or juice, formula or other product made from the water, officials from the Worden Ballantine Yellowstone County Water and Sewer District said.
The water is safe for all others to drink, although pregnant women should consult with a doctor first, water officials said.
A water sample test taken by the Montana Department of Environmental on May 30 showed a nitrate level of 12.4 milligrams per liter, which is above the maximum contaminant level of 10 milligrams per liter.
Nitrate contamination comes from agricultural, industrial and natural sources, including septic systems and runoffs, according to the water district.
The district has increased monitoring and is working with the DEQ for a solution,
Bottled water is available at the district’s main office at 2449 Main St. in Worden for pickup from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. or by appointment.
More information is available at the water district’s website: www.wbyc.myruralwater.com
