Groundwater in Delta County contains iron, arsenic, and fluoride. Iron is present at moderate levels that exceed EPA health standards, while arsenic and fluoride are detected but at levels below health limits.
The rocks beneath Delta County naturally contain these elements. As water moves slowly through the underground rock layers, iron dissolves into the water. Arsenic and fluoride occur naturally in the same rocks and enter groundwater through the same process. This region shares these characteristics with surrounding counties because the bedrock here is similar across a wide area.
Water in Delta County is characterized by moderate iron content. This iron comes from the minerals in the local rock layers and concentrates as water sits underground for years. Iron is common enough that many wells in the county show this characteristic, though individual wells vary in how much is present.
Iron shows up in county wells at levels above EPA health standards. Arsenic and fluoride are also concerns in this area. Iron can cause problems with your organs over time if you drink it at high levels. Arsenic is linked to serious health issues including cancer and heart disease. Fluoride at elevated levels can affect bone and tooth health, especially in children.
Iron in county well water creates visible staining on sinks, toilets, and laundry. You might notice a metallic taste or smell in the water. These stains are hard to clean and can be frustrating, but the main issue is protecting your health from the contaminants themselves.
Every well is different, and your well 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 water so you can treat it properly. We recommend getting a comprehensive metals and minerals panel done, which typically costs between $200 and $400. Treatment options like iron removal filters or reverse osmosis systems can help address these concerns.
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 ⓘ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Iron | 14 | 14% | Low | Moderate | |
| Arsenic | 7 | 0% | Low | Safe ⓘ | |
| Fluoride | 34 | 0% | Moderate | Low | |
| Lead | 7 | 0% | Low | Safe ⓘ | |
| Manganese | 10 | 0% | Low | Low | |
| Nitrate | 6 | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Uranium | 1 | 0% | Low | Safe ⓘ |
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.
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