Groundwater in Crane County contains nitrate, uranium, arsenic, fluoride, iron, and manganese at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminants are present at concentrations the EPA considers concerning enough to require action.
These contaminants come from two main sources. Nitrate enters groundwater from agricultural and urban activities on the surface that seep down through the soil. Uranium and arsenic occur naturally in the rock and soil layers of the Pecos River Basin and are released into groundwater as water moves through these deposits. Fluoride also comes from natural minerals in the underground rocks.
Groundwater in this county shows moderate iron content along with the naturally occurring uranium and arsenic from the local rock formations. The underground gravel and sediment layers that make up the aquifer in this area naturally contain these radioactive and metallic elements, which dissolve slowly as water passes through them. Iron and manganese appear across many wells in the county at moderate levels.
Wells in Crane County sometimes contain arsenic, fluoride, uranium, and nitrate at levels above EPA health standards. Arsenic and uranium are metals that can build up in your body over time and increase the risk of cancer. Fluoride at high levels can affect bone and tooth health. Nitrate is especially concerning for babies and pregnant women, as it can interfere with how blood carries oxygen.
Iron and manganese in county well water create staining on sinks, toilets, and laundry. You might notice a metallic taste or reddish-brown discoloration. These minerals can leave deposits inside pipes and reduce water flow over time.
We recommend testing your well to find out what is actually in your water, since every well is different and yours may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel costs between $200 and $400 and is the best way to know exactly what needs treatment. Your results will guide whether you need a filtration system, water softener, or other treatment.
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 ⓘ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nitrate | 6 | 50% | Low | High ⓘ | |
| Uranium | 12 | 42% | Low | High | |
| Arsenic | 45 | 24% | Moderate | High | |
| Iron | 47 | 15% | Moderate | Moderate | |
| Fluoride | 120 | 6% | High | Moderate | |
| Manganese | 45 | 2% | Moderate | Low | |
| Lead | 45 | 0% | 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.
Order a Tap Score Test →Population-level CDC data. Not individual risk prediction.
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