Farmer Jason Othmer operates a combine as he harvests corn near Vesta in Johnson County. Othmer says he uses less than the recommended amount of nitrogen fertilizer and plants cover crops, which suck up nitrate in the soil so it won’t leach into drinking water. But he does something that can increase the risk of nitrates leaching: He typically applies anhydrous ammonia in the fall, which he says “gets the bang for the buck.”
As you prepare to soak up the last few rays of summer sunshine, you’re got your swimsuit on. Sunscreen and towels are already packed. Beverages are chilling in the cooler. You’ve thought of everything – but what’s the water quality going to be when you get there? That’s the question public health scientists across the country want to cross off your checklist for you. Beach water quality can be driven by myriad factors, including temperature and the level of bacteria or algae blooms present. We talk to microbiologists to learn what they test for and how you can best protect yourself after a day in the water.
Chris Dunker's favorite stories from 2022
Wildfires in Arapahoe, carbon pipelines in O'Neill, toxic waste in Mead, and one woman's escape from Ukraine were among Chris Dunker's five favorite stories this year.
Farmer Jason Othmer operates a combine as he harvests corn near Vesta in Johnson County. Othmer says he uses less than the recommended amount of nitrogen fertilizer and plants cover crops, which suck up nitrate in the soil so it won’t leach into drinking water. But he does something that can increase the risk of nitrates leaching: He typically applies anhydrous ammonia in the fall, which he says “gets the bang for the buck.”
