Well Water in Haskell County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Haskell County contains nitrate, manganese, iron, and fluoride at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminants are present at concentrations high enough that well owners should have their water tested and consider treatment options.

Nitrate comes from agricultural fertilizers and animal waste that seep down through the soil into groundwater. Iron and manganese occur naturally in the local rocks and are released into water as it moves through the ground. Fluoride also comes from the rocks themselves in this region. All three of these natural minerals are common in the groundwater here because of the mineral makeup of the aquifer.

Groundwater in this county is notably high in iron and manganese, the minerals that give it its distinctive character. These metals dissolve from the rock layers as water flows through them, concentrating in wells across the county.

Wells in Haskell County commonly have fluoride, iron, manganese, and nitrate at levels above EPA health standards. Fluoride at elevated levels can cause dental fluorosis, which affects tooth enamel during childhood. Manganese can build up in the body and affect the brain and nervous system. Nitrate is especially harmful to infants and can interfere with how blood carries oxygen.

Iron and manganese in county well water create orange or brown staining on sinks, toilets, and laundry. These minerals leave rust-colored deposits that are hard to clean. The water may taste metallic or bitter, and you might notice a musty smell.

We recommend testing your well water with a comprehensive panel since several analytes exceed health standards in this county. Every well is different--yours could have higher or lower levels than what is common here. Testing costs between $200 and $400 and is the only way to know what is actually in your water so you can treat it properly. Iron and manganese removal systems, along with nitrate treatment, are available depending on what testing shows.