Manganese, iron, and fluoride are present in Palo Pinto County groundwater at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These concentrations are significant enough that well owners should test their water and consider treatment.
The rocks beneath Palo Pinto County naturally contain iron and manganese. As rainwater soaks down through the ground, it dissolves these metals from the rock and carries them into the water supply. Fluoride also occurs naturally in the local geology and concentrates in groundwater the same way.
Groundwater in this county is high in iron and manganese, the minerals that give the water its character. These metals come from the bedrock that underlies the area and are released into water as it moves slowly through the ground. Most wells across Palo Pinto County show elevated levels of these contaminants.
Wells in Palo Pinto County commonly exceed EPA health standards for fluoride, iron, and manganese. Fluoride at elevated levels can damage children's teeth and bones during development. Manganese can harm the nervous system and affect how the brain works. Iron itself is not a direct health threat, but at high levels it becomes a concern when combined with other contaminants.
County wells with elevated iron and manganese create visible staining on sinks, toilets, and laundry. Water may taste metallic or look rusty and cloudy. These minerals can clog pipes and reduce water flow over time. The buildup can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers.
Every well in this county is different, and your well may have higher or lower levels than what is common here. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your water so it can be properly treated. We recommend a comprehensive metals and minerals panel, which typically costs $200 to $400. Iron filters and water softeners can help address these concerns.
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 | 10 | 10% | Low | Moderate | |
| Iron | 22 | 9% | Moderate | Moderate | |
| Fluoride | 60 | 5% | Moderate | Moderate | |
| Arsenic | 7 | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| HFPO-DA (GenX) ⓘ municipal | 8 | 0% | Low | Safe ⓘ | |
| Lead | 7 | 0% | Low | Safe ⓘ | |
| Nitrate | 10 | 0% | Low | Low | |
| PFHxS ⓘ municipal | 8 | 0% | Low | Safe ⓘ | |
| PFNA ⓘ municipal | 8 | 0% | Low | Safe ⓘ | |
| PFOA ⓘ municipal | 8 | 0% | Low | Safe ⓘ | |
| PFOS ⓘ municipal | 8 | 0% | Low | Safe ⓘ | |
| Uranium | 2 | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| PFBS ⓘ municipal | 8 | — | Low | Safe ⓘ |
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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