Well Water in Marquette County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Marquette County contains manganese, iron, and radon, all of which exceed EPA health standards. These elevated levels represent a serious concern that well owners should address.

The Jacobsville aquifer beneath this county is made of sandstone and other rocks that naturally contain these metals and radioactive minerals. As groundwater moves slowly through cracks and spaces in this bedrock, iron and manganese dissolve into the water, and radon gas seeps in from the radioactive decay of elements locked in the rock.

Groundwater in this county is soft, but elevated iron is the most noticeable feature of the water character. Iron concentrates in the water because the sandstone bedrock is naturally rich in iron-bearing minerals that dissolve as water passes through. Most wells in Marquette County show signs of elevated iron.

Radon, iron, and manganese all exceed EPA health standards in wells throughout this county. Radon is a radioactive gas that increases lung cancer risk when you breathe it in over time. Iron and manganese are metals that can harm your health with long-term exposure--manganese is especially dangerous for children's brain development. These three contaminants together make testing urgent.

Wells in this county produce water that is extremely hard, which causes scale buildup on pipes, fixtures, and appliances. The elevated iron leaves orange or rust-colored stains on sinks, toilets, and laundry that are difficult to remove. You may also notice a metallic taste in the water. Over time, hard water can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers.

We recommend testing your well water through a certified lab. 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 water so it can be properly treated. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel typically costs $200-400. Treatment options include aeration systems to remove radon and iron removal filters combined with a water softener.