Well Water in Isanti County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Isanti County contains PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHXS, arsenic, lead, manganese, nitrate, chloride, and iron--all at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminant levels are serious enough that well owners should test their water and consider treatment.

PFAS chemicals like PFOA and PFOS come from industrial sites and certain firefighting foams used at airports and military bases. Arsenic, lead, manganese, and iron occur naturally in the rock beneath the county and dissolve into groundwater as it moves slowly underground. Nitrate and chloride usually enter from fertilizers, road salt, septic systems, or animal waste on the land above. All of these sources--natural rock, industrial activity, and human land use--contribute to the contamination found here.

Groundwater in Isanti County is very hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium from the rocks below, and contains moderate iron that adds to its mineral character. As water moves through the mixed rock layers under the county, minerals dissolve and concentrate, especially calcium and magnesium that create hardness, and iron that is common across wells in this area. These mineral characteristics are widespread throughout Isanti County wells.

Wells in Isanti County commonly contain PFNA, PFOA, PFOS, PFHXS, arsenic, lead, nitrate, and chloride at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Arsenic builds up in the body over time and can damage kidneys and increase cancer risk. Lead harms children's brain development and nervous system function. PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, and PFHXS are industrial chemicals that can affect the liver, thyroid, and immune system. Nitrate is particularly dangerous for babies and can prevent oxygen from reaching their blood.

Wells in this county are very hard, meaning they have high levels of dissolved minerals like calcium and magnesium. Hard water causes soap scum in showers and bathtubs, stains on dishes and laundry, and buildup of scale inside pipes and water heaters. The moderate iron levels common here can turn water reddish or brown and leave rust stains on fixtures and clothes. This extreme hardness can shorten the lifespan of water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines.

We recommend testing your well with a comprehensive panel because multiple contaminants exceed health standards. 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 you can treat it properly. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel typically costs $200-400. Treatment options like activated carbon filters and water softeners can address many of these concerns.