Well Water in Red River County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Red River County contains iron, manganese, and fluoride at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminant levels are at a point where well owners should be aware and consider testing.

Iron and manganese come from the natural rock beneath the county. As water moves slowly through these rock layers over time, these metals dissolve into the groundwater. Fluoride also occurs naturally in the local rocks and concentrates in the water in the same way.

Groundwater in this county is notable for elevated iron and manganese from the underlying rock layers. As water percolates through these materials, these metals become dissolved in the water. Wells across Red River County commonly show these characteristics.

Wells in Red River County commonly contain fluoride, iron, and manganese at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Fluoride at elevated concentrations can cause dental fluorosis, which damages tooth enamel and creates white spots or streaks. Iron and manganese can harm your nervous system and affect how your body uses important nutrients when consumed at high levels over time.

Water with elevated iron and manganese often leaves reddish or brown stains on sinks, toilets, and laundry. The water may taste metallic or have an unpleasant odor. These minerals can also build up inside pipes and reduce water flow over time.

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 what is common in the county. Testing is the only way to know what needs treatment. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel costs between two hundred and four hundred dollars and will give you a complete picture. Iron and manganese removal systems can help address these concerns.