Well Water in Marinette County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Marinette County contains iron, radon, and arsenic at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminants are serious concerns that require attention.

Iron, radon, and arsenic come from the rock bedrock beneath this county. Iron and arsenic dissolve naturally as groundwater moves slowly through the mixed rock layers. Radon seeps into the groundwater from tiny amounts of radioactive material in the stone itself.

Groundwater in this county is hard, driven mainly by elevated calcium and magnesium from the rock formations below. As water moves through these mineral-rich layers over time, it picks up dissolved minerals that concentrate in the water. Hard water is extremely common across wells throughout Marinette County.

Wells in Marinette County commonly exceed EPA health standards for arsenic, iron, radon, and sulfate. Arsenic is a poison that builds up in your body over time and can cause skin problems, bladder disease, and cancer. Radon is a radioactive gas that enters water from rocks underground. When you shower, cook, or run water, radon escapes into the air you breathe, and breathing it over many years increases your risk of lung cancer. Iron in drinking water does not pose direct health risks, but high levels can affect water quality.

The mineral content in county wells creates noticeable everyday problems. Hard water leaves white, crusty scale buildup on pipes, shower heads, and fixtures. The scale can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers. You may also notice orange or rust-colored stains from iron in sinks, tubs, and laundry. These are quality-of-life issues that make water use harder.

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 water so it can be properly treated. Because multiple analytes exceed health standards, a comprehensive metals and minerals panel is recommended, which typically costs $200-400. Treatment options like aeration systems for radon and water softeners for hardness can help address these concerns.