Operators within a management zone that has been designated a Phase III Management Zone must have their irrigation water tested for nitrates at least once every three years.  Zones 6 and 11 moved to a Phase III Management Area January 2022, and operators within these zones are now required to submit water samples. Zones 6 and 11 include the following townships:

Zone 6
York County: Hays (09N-03W), Henderson (09N-04W), Baker (10N-03W), Brown (10N-04W)

Hamilton County: Farmers Valley (09N-05W), Beaver (10N-05W)

Zone 11
Seward County: Map E (11N-01E), Map F (11N-02E), Map G (11N-03E), Map H (11N-04E), Map L (10N-01E), Map K (10N-02E), Map J (10N-03E), Map I (10N-04E), Map O (09N-03E), Map P (09N-04E)

Irrigation wells in Zones 6 and 11 must be sampled by April 1, 2025. 

Important things to remember:

• All active irrigation wells in Zones 6 and 11 must be sampled.
• Comingled wells need to be sampled individually. 
• Follow sampling instructions, especially the timeframe for delivery.
• If there are multiple wells per quarter, be specific when labeling – sub-quarter or physical location description is helpful to assign results and therefore, comply with rules and regulations. 

The Upper Big Blue NRD is now utilizing a new database software that will allow staff to better track reporting information, such as, phase reports, sensor reports, and water samples. Wells that have not been sampled by April 1, 2025, will be found in violation of District rules and regulations.