Well Water in Camden County: What to Test and Why

Arsenic, iron, manganese, and chloride are present in Camden County's groundwater and well owners should be aware of them. Several of these contaminants exceed EPA health standards and warrant attention.

These metals and salts occur naturally in the sand and clay layers beneath this region. The Northern Atlantic Coastal Plain aquifer system here contains iron-bearing sediment that releases iron and manganese into water as it flows underground. Saltwater from ancient ocean deposits also contributes chloride to the groundwater in this area.

Groundwater in Camden County is soft but notably high in iron. The sandy layers that make up the aquifer contain iron minerals that dissolve into the water as it moves through the rock. High iron content shows up across many wells throughout this county.

Wells in Camden County exceed EPA health standards for arsenic, chloride, iron, and manganese. Arsenic is toxic and builds up in your body over time, raising the risk of cancer and organ damage. Manganese at high levels can affect the nervous system. Chloride and iron at elevated concentrations add to your total exposure to harmful substances in drinking water.

Iron in county wells causes reddish-brown staining on fixtures, laundry, and bathroom surfaces. You may notice a metallic or unpleasant taste in your water. While the water in this county is relatively soft, the iron content still creates visible discoloration and buildup problems around your home.

We recommend testing your well water with a comprehensive metals and minerals panel, since multiple analytes exceed EPA standards. Every well is different, and your well may contain higher or lower levels than what is common in Camden County. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your water so you can treat it properly. A comprehensive panel typically costs between $200 and $400. Treatment options like reverse osmosis systems or iron removal filters can address multiple contaminants at once.