Well Water in St. Lawrence County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in St. Lawrence County contains radon, lead, and chloride at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Lead and radon are the most concerning of these contaminants based on their severity.

Radon enters the water from radioactive elements in the limestone bedrock beneath the county. Lead comes from natural mineral deposits in the rock and soil, and chloride accumulates from road salt and natural sources in the environment. The limestone geology of this region naturally produces these contaminants as water moves through the rock layers.

Groundwater in this county is soft, with low levels of calcium and magnesium from the carbonate rock below. The water does not pick up heavy mineral loads as it passes through limestone, which is why hardness and other mineral concentrations stay low across the county. Soft water is common in wells throughout St. Lawrence County.

Wells in St. Lawrence County commonly have chloride, lead, radon, and sulfate at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Lead damages the brain, kidneys, and nervous system, especially in children. Radon is a radioactive gas that increases lung cancer risk. Chloride and sulfate at elevated levels can cause digestive problems and other health concerns in people who are sensitive to them.

The good news is that wells in this county tend to be soft, which means you probably won't experience the staining, scale buildup, or stains that come with hard water. Your appliances like water heaters and dishwashers should not suffer from shortened lifespans due to mineral buildup. You're unlikely to notice metallic taste, rust-colored water, or other mineral-related problems.

We recommend testing your well water to find out exactly what is in it. Every well is different, and your well may have higher or lower levels than what is common across the county. A comprehensive panel that checks for metals, minerals, bacteria, and radon typically costs between $200 and $400. Depending on your results, treatment options like reverse osmosis filters or radon aeration systems can remove or reduce these contaminants.