Well Water in Trempealeau County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Trempealeau County contains radon, iron, and manganese at levels high enough to exceed EPA health standards. Iron is notably elevated, while radon and manganese also warrant attention from well owners.

These contaminants come from the rock layers beneath the county. The deep bedrock naturally contains radioactive material that releases radon, and it also holds iron and manganese that dissolve into water as it moves slowly underground over time.

Groundwater in this county is moderately hard, with elevated iron as the defining mineral character. Iron dissolves from the rock layers as water passes through them on its way to your well. These characteristics appear across many wells in the county, though individual wells vary in their exact concentrations.

Wells in Trempealeau County commonly have iron, manganese, radon, and sulfate at levels exceeding EPA health standards. Iron and manganese can cause problems with brain development, especially in young children. Radon is a radioactive gas that builds up indoors over time and increases the risk of lung cancer with long-term exposure. These contaminants come from the natural bedrock in the area.

The county's water is moderately hard, which means you may notice rusty-brown staining on clothes, fixtures, and toilets from the elevated iron. You might also detect a metallic taste or smell in the water. Hard water can leave scale buildup inside pipes and on appliances, and over time this scale can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers.

We recommend testing your well water with a comprehensive metals and minerals panel to find out what is actually in your water, since every well is different and yours could have higher or lower levels than the county average. Testing is the only way to know what treatment your well needs. A comprehensive panel typically costs between $200 and $400. Iron removal systems and radon ventilation can address these concerns once you know your specific levels.