Iron, manganese, and arsenic are present in St. Joseph County's groundwater. Iron and manganese exceed EPA health standards in this area, while arsenic is detected at lower levels.
These metals dissolve naturally from the mixed rocks beneath the county. When groundwater sits in underground layers with low oxygen, iron and manganese dissolve into the water. Arsenic occurs naturally in certain rock types found here. The mixed composition of these rocks does not filter out these contaminants as water moves slowly through the spaces between particles.
Groundwater in this county is high in iron. The same rock layers that release iron and manganese also contribute to elevated mineral content overall. Iron is common in wells across St. Joseph County.
Wells in St. Joseph County commonly contain iron and manganese at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Iron and manganese are metals that dissolve naturally from rocks underground. Manganese is of particular concern because long-term exposure can affect the nervous system and brain development, especially in children. Iron itself is not regulated for health, but the presence of both metals together signals the water chemistry in your area.
Beyond health concerns, iron in county wells causes orange or rust-colored staining on sinks, toilets, and laundry. Manganese can leave brown or black stains. These minerals also build up as scale inside pipes and water heaters, which can reduce water pressure and shorten appliance lifespan over time.
We recommend testing your well to find out what is actually in your water. Every well is different, and your water may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. Testing is the only way to know for certain so you can treat it properly if needed. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel costs $200-400 and will tell you exactly what you are dealing with. Treatment options like oxidation filters or water softeners paired with iron removal systems can address these issues effectively.
Not sure if your well is affected? Get certified results in 5–7 days.
Test Your Well Water with Tap Score →| Contaminant | Samples ⓘ | % Above MCL ⓘ | Distribution ⓘ | Confidence ⓘ | Risk ⓘ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manganese | 1 | 100% | Low | High ⓘ | |
| Chloride | 1 | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| HFPO-DA (GenX) ⓘ municipal | 12 | 0% | Low | Safe | |
| Iron | 1 | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Nitrate | 1 | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| PFHxS ⓘ municipal | 12 | 0% | Low | Safe | |
| PFNA ⓘ municipal | 12 | 0% | Low | Safe | |
| PFOA ⓘ municipal | 12 | 0% | Low | Safe | |
| PFOS ⓘ municipal | 12 | 0% | Low | Safe | |
| Sulfate | 1 | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Hardness | 1 | — | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| PFBS ⓘ municipal | 12 | — | Low | Safe | |
| pH | 1 | — | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Sodium | 1 | — | Low | Low ⓘ |
MCL = Maximum Contaminant Level (EPA limit for public water; used as benchmark for private wells). Distribution shows % of sampled wells in each concentration band. Methodology.
* Microbial contaminants (E. coli, coliform) reflect only samples from the last 10 years.
Data shows potential risk — a certified test confirms whether your water is affected.
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