Iron, manganese, and arsenic are present in Vernon County's groundwater. Iron and manganese exceed EPA health standards at concerning levels.
The rock layers beneath Vernon County naturally contain iron and manganese. As groundwater moves slowly through these deep rocks over many years, it dissolves these metals and carries them into wells. Arsenic also occurs naturally in the bedrock in small amounts.
Groundwater in this county is very hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium from the limestone and other rocks below. Water moving through these rock layers for extended periods dissolves minerals that build up and create this hardness. Very hard water is widespread across wells throughout the county.
Iron and manganese are found at levels above EPA health standards in wells throughout Vernon County. Manganese exposure over time can affect how your brain develops and functions. Iron itself is not a direct health concern at the levels seen here, but it indicates that other contaminants may also be present in your water.
The very hard water in Vernon County wells causes practical problems in your home. You may notice orange or rusty-brown stains on sinks, fixtures, and laundry. Hard water also leaves chalky scale buildup inside pipes and on appliances. This mineral buildup can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers. You might also notice that soap and shampoo work less effectively.
We recommend testing your well to find out what contaminants are actually present in your specific water. 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 typically costs between $200 and $400. Iron removal systems and water softeners can address these concerns once you know your results.
Not sure if your well is affected? Get certified results in 5–7 days.
Test Your Well Water with Tap Score →| Contaminant | Samples ⓘ | % Above MCL ⓘ | Distribution ⓘ | Confidence ⓘ | Risk ⓘ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iron | 64 | 31% | Moderate | High | |
| Manganese | 63 | 11% | Moderate | Moderate | |
| Arsenic | 15 | 0% | Moderate | Low | |
| Chloride | 62 | 0% | Moderate | Low | |
| Fluoride | 55 | 0% | Moderate | Low | |
| HFPO-DA (GenX) ⓘ municipal | 11 | 0% | Low | Safe | |
| Lead | 17 | 0% | Moderate | Low | |
| Nitrate | 52 | 0% | Moderate | Low | |
| Nitrite | 37 | 0% | Moderate | Low | |
| PFHxS ⓘ municipal | 11 | 0% | Low | Safe | |
| PFNA ⓘ municipal | 11 | 0% | Low | Safe | |
| PFOA ⓘ municipal | 11 | 0% | Low | Low | |
| PFOS ⓘ municipal | 11 | 0% | Low | Safe | |
| Sulfate | 61 | 0% | Moderate | Low | |
| Uranium | 11 | 0% | Low | Low | |
| Hardness | 64 | — | Moderate | Low | |
| PFBS ⓘ municipal | 11 | — | Low | Safe | |
| pH | 62 | — | Moderate | Low | |
| Sodium | 40 | — | Moderate | Low |
MCL = Maximum Contaminant Level (EPA limit for public water; used as benchmark for private wells). Distribution shows % of sampled wells in each concentration band. Methodology.
* Microbial contaminants (E. coli, coliform) reflect only samples from the last 10 years.
Data shows potential risk — a certified test confirms whether your water is affected.
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