Arsenic, iron, and manganese are present in Missaukee County's groundwater and well owners should be aware of them. These three contaminants exceed EPA health standards and represent a serious concern that warrants testing and treatment.
The rock layers beneath this county naturally contain these metals. As groundwater moves slowly through the mixed rock and sediment underground, iron and manganese dissolve out into the water. Arsenic also occurs naturally in certain rock types found in this area. The geology here does not filter these metals away before they reach your well.
Groundwater in this county is notably hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium from the limestone and rock below. The slow movement of water through these mineral-rich layers allows these elements to concentrate. Elevated hardness and iron are common characteristics found across wells throughout this county.
Arsenic, iron, and manganese are found at concerning levels in wells across Missaukee County. Arsenic is a poison that builds up in your body over time and increases your risk of cancer and heart disease. Manganese at elevated levels can harm your nervous system and brain development. Iron itself is not poisonous at high concentrations, but it does indicate the overall mineral character of your groundwater.
Wells in this county often have hard water, which means mineral buildup on fixtures and inside pipes and water heaters. You may notice orange or reddish-brown staining on sinks, toilets, and laundry. Your water may taste metallic or slightly bitter. Over time, these mineral deposits can shorten the lifespan of appliances like water heaters and dishwashers.
We recommend testing your well water, since 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 is actually in your well so it can be properly treated. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel typically runs $200-400 and will tell you exactly what you are dealing with. Iron removal filters or water softeners can help address the mineral concerns in your area.
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 ⓘ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arsenic | 6 | 17% | Low | High ⓘ | |
| Iron | 6 | 17% | Low | High ⓘ | |
| Manganese | 6 | 17% | Low | High ⓘ | |
| Chloride | 6 | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Fluoride | 6 | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Lead | 1 | 0% | Low | Safe ⓘ | |
| Nitrite | 2 | 0% | Low | Safe ⓘ | |
| Radon | 1 | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Sulfate | 6 | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Nitrate | 2 | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Hardness | 6 | — | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| pH | 7 | — | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Sodium | 6 | — | Low | 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.
Order a Tap Score Test →Population-level CDC data. Not individual risk prediction.
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