Groundwater in Mason County contains iron, nitrate, and manganese at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminants are present at concentrations serious enough that well owners should be aware of them.
Iron and manganese dissolve naturally from the local rock as groundwater moves through it underground. Nitrate enters the groundwater from septic systems and agricultural activities in the area. The mixed rock types that lie beneath Mason County release these metals and allow nitrate to accumulate in the water supply.
Groundwater in this county is notably high in iron and manganese, the minerals that give the water its character. Water moving through the local rocks picks up these metals naturally over time. These elevated mineral concentrations are widespread across wells throughout Mason County.
Wells in Mason County commonly have iron, manganese, and nitrate at levels above EPA health standards. Iron and manganese can affect the nervous system and cause other health problems with long-term exposure. Nitrate is a concern for infants and can interfere with how blood carries oxygen in young children.
County well water with elevated iron and manganese causes reddish or brownish staining on fixtures, laundry, and dishes. These minerals leave a metallic taste and can make water smell unpleasant. Iron buildup inside pipes and appliances reduces water flow and can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers.
We recommend testing your well water to find out what is actually in it, since every well is different and your water may have higher or lower levels than the county average. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel costs between $200 and $400 and will tell you exactly what you are dealing with. Testing is the only way to know what treatment your well needs, whether that is filtration systems, water softeners, or other solutions.
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 ⓘ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iron | 175 | 15% | High | High | |
| Nitrate | 14 | 14% | Low | Moderate | |
| Manganese | 80 | 5% | Moderate | Moderate | |
| Arsenic | 72 | 0% | Moderate | Low | |
| Fluoride | 329 | 0% | High | Low | |
| Lead | 72 | 0% | Moderate | Low | |
| Uranium | 24 | 0% | Moderate | 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.
Order a Tap Score Test →Population-level CDC data. Not individual risk prediction.
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