Well Water in Kewaunee County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Kewaunee County contains iron, arsenic, and chloride at levels you should be aware of. Arsenic and chloride exceed EPA health standards, while iron also reaches concerning levels.

These contaminants come from the rock beneath the county. Arsenic and iron dissolve naturally as groundwater sits in contact with the surrounding minerals. Chloride enters from road salt that soaks down through soil into the water below.

Groundwater in this county is very hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium from the rock layers underneath. The high hardness results from minerals that dissolve as water moves slowly through the stone. Very hard water is common across wells throughout Kewaunee County.

Wells in Kewaunee County commonly contain arsenic, chloride, iron, and sulfate at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Arsenic is a poison that builds up in your body over time and raises the risk of cancer and other serious diseases. Chloride at high levels can affect people with heart disease or high blood pressure. Iron and sulfate above EPA standards also pose health risks with long-term exposure.

Wells in this county are extremely hard, which means white, crusty scale builds up on pipes, faucets, and inside appliances. Iron causes orange-brown staining on sinks, tubs, and laundry that is hard to remove. The water may have a metallic taste or smell. Extremely hard water can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers.

We recommend testing your well water through a certified lab. Every well is different, and your well may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your well so it can be properly treated. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel typically costs $200-400. Iron filters or water softeners can help address these concerns.