Well Water in Alcona County: What to Test and Why

Lead and arsenic are the contaminants well owners should be aware of in Alcona County groundwater. Lead exceeds the EPA health standard, which is a concern that warrants testing and possible treatment.

Lead enters groundwater from natural deposits in the rock and from corrosion of pipes and fixtures in older wells. Arsenic occurs naturally in the sandstone and other rock layers beneath the county. Chloride can seep in from road salt used during winter months.

Groundwater in this county is moderately hard, driven by calcium and magnesium from the rock below. Iron is present at moderate levels and also contributes to the water's mineral character. These characteristics are common across wells in the county, though individual wells vary.

Lead exceeds EPA health standards in wells throughout this county. Long-term exposure to lead can harm your brain, kidneys, and nervous system. Lead is especially dangerous for children and pregnant women. Even low levels can cause serious health problems over time.

Wells in this county show moderately hard water with moderate iron levels. You may notice orange or reddish-brown stains on sinks, toilets, and laundry. The water might taste slightly metallic or leave deposits on faucets and pipes. Hard water can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers.

We recommend testing your well water since every well is different and yours may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your well so it can be properly treated. A basic health screen for bacteria and nitrate runs about fifty to one hundred dollars. If testing confirms elevated iron or lead, iron filtration or a whole-house treatment system can help.