Well Water in Douglas County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Douglas County contains chloride, arsenic, and e_coli. Chloride is present at levels that exceed EPA health standards, while arsenic and e_coli are detected but at low levels.

Chloride enters groundwater here mainly from road salt and de-icing applications, especially in areas near roads and parking lots. Arsenic occurs naturally in the rock layers beneath the county and leaches into water as it moves through the ground. E_coli typically comes from surface sources near wells, such as septic systems or animal waste, rather than from deep geological sources.

Groundwater in this county is moderately hard, driven by calcium and magnesium from the mixed rocks underlying the area. These minerals dissolve as water permeates through the bedrock and accumulate in the groundwater. Moderately hard water is common across wells throughout Douglas County.

Chloride exceeds EPA health standards in wells across Douglas County. High chloride can affect people with heart disease or high blood pressure by making it harder for their bodies to control salt and water balance. Arsenic and E. coli bacteria are also found in some county wells. Arsenic is toxic and exposure over time increases cancer risk. E. coli bacteria cause serious stomach and intestinal illness.

Moderately hard water in this county leaves white or chalky scale on fixtures, faucets, and inside pipes. You may notice spots on dishes after washing or scale buildup in your coffee maker and tea kettle. Hard water can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers because minerals build up inside them over time. The good news is that sodium and sulfate levels are low, so you won't see staining or taste problems from those minerals.

Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your well, since every well is different and yours may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. We recommend a comprehensive panel that checks for metals, bacteria, and minerals, which typically costs between $200 and $400. Once you know your results, treatment options like chloride removal systems or bacteria disinfection can address your specific water quality.