At sea level, water boils at 212 °F. As the elevation increases, water will boil at a lower temperature. For elevations above sea level, it is necessary to add additional time or pressure when processing food to obtain a safe product. Canning directions for each food will give proper processing times and pressures for elevation adjustments. The map indicates the elevations for Nebraska (Figure 1).
Figure 1. Elevation ranges in Nebraska. Map was prepared by Les Howard, cartographer, UNL School of Natural Resources
Live outside of Nebraska? Usually, you can find your elevation at your local planning commission or zoning office, on a webpage about your town or city, or contact your local Cooperative Extension Office. More information is also available from the National Center for Home Food Preservation.
Sources:
National Center for Home Food Preservation, University of Georgia Extension
USDA Complete Guide to Home Canning, National Center for Home Preservation
Article originally written by Julie Albrecht. Updated and reviewed by Carol Larvick in 2021.
