Iron, manganese, and arsenic are present in Leelanau County's groundwater. Iron and manganese exceed EPA health standards at concerning levels.
These metals dissolve naturally from the bedrock as groundwater sits in contact with the surrounding rock layers. The limestone and other carbonate stone in this region naturally release iron and manganese into the water over time.
Groundwater in this county is hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium from the limestone below. Hard water is common across most wells in this area.
Wells in Leelanau County sometimes contain iron and manganese at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Iron buildup in the body over many years can affect your heart and joints. Manganese exposure at elevated levels can damage the nervous system, affecting memory, attention, and coordination, particularly in children.
The moderate iron levels common in county wells leave orange-brown stains on sinks, toilets, and laundry that are hard to remove. Hard water in this area can leave white crusty buildup on pipes and faucets. Over time, hard water can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers. The water may also have a metallic taste or smell.
We recommend testing your well to learn what contaminants are actually present in your water. Every well is different, and your well may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. A basic health screen runs about $50-100, while a comprehensive metals and minerals panel costs $200-400. Iron removal filters or water softeners can help address these issues 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 | 10 | 20% | Low | High | |
| Manganese | 10 | 10% | Low | Moderate | |
| Nitrate | 10 | 0% | Low | Low | |
| Arsenic | 9 | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Chloride | 21 | 0% | Moderate | Low | |
| Fluoride | 10 | 0% | Low | Low | |
| Lead | 10 | 0% | Low | Low | |
| Nitrite | 10 | 0% | Low | Low | |
| PFNA | 1 | 0% | Low | Safe ⓘ | |
| PFOA | 2 | 0% | Low | Safe ⓘ | |
| Sulfate | 21 | 0% | Moderate | Low | |
| Uranium | 3 | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Hardness | 21 | — | Moderate | Low | |
| pH | 22 | — | Moderate | Low | |
| Sodium | 21 | — | 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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