Well Water in Garza County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Garza County contains arsenic, fluoride, iron, and manganese at levels high enough to exceed EPA health standards. These contaminants are present in amounts that well owners should monitor and address.

The High Plains aquifer here sits atop and within rock layers that naturally hold these metals and minerals. Iron and manganese come from the rock itself as water slowly dissolves them underground. Arsenic and fluoride occur naturally in the same geological layers and accumulate in the water over time.

Groundwater in this county is notably high in iron, which is the main mineral character of the water. Iron concentrates in the High Plains aquifer because it exists naturally in the rock and soil layers here. Most wells in Garza County show elevated iron levels.

Wells in Garza County commonly contain arsenic and fluoride at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Arsenic can damage the kidneys and nervous system with long-term exposure. Fluoride at elevated levels can cause dental fluorosis, which appears as white spots or streaks on teeth, especially in children whose teeth are still developing.

Iron and manganese in county well water create staining and discoloration problems. These minerals leave rust-colored or brown marks on sinks, toilets, and laundry. You may notice a metallic taste or smell in the water. High iron can also shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers over time.

We recommend testing your well water with a comprehensive panel since several analytes exceed health standards in this county. Every well is different, and your water could have higher or lower levels than what is common here. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your well so you can treat it properly. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel typically costs between $200 and $400. Treatment options like ion exchange or reverse osmosis can address multiple contaminants at once.