Well Water in Nolan County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Nolan County contains nitrate, iron, and manganese at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminants are present at concentrations serious enough that well owners should test their water and consider treatment options.

Nitrate comes from fertilizers and animal waste that seep down through soil into groundwater, while iron and manganese occur naturally in the rock layers beneath the county. The sandy and mixed rock layers that hold water in this area readily release these metals into the water as it passes through, and agricultural activity adds to the nitrate problem.

Groundwater in Nolan County is notably high in iron and manganese, the two minerals that give the water its character. These metals dissolve out of the rock as water moves through underground layers, and this is a common problem across the county's wells. Iron at moderate levels shows up in many wells here, making this a widespread issue rather than an isolated one.

Wells in Nolan County sometimes have iron, manganese, and nitrate at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Iron and manganese at high levels can cause problems with your blood and organs over time. Nitrate is especially concerning for babies and pregnant women, as it can interfere with how blood carries oxygen through the body.

Iron and manganese in county well water create staining on clothes, dishes, and bathroom fixtures that is hard to remove. The water may taste metallic or bitter, and you might notice rust-colored or dark particles in your water. Iron can clog pipes and damage appliances like water heaters and dishwashers by building up inside them over years.

We recommend testing your well water, since every well is unique and your water may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. Testing is the only way to know exactly what is in your well so you can treat it properly. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel typically costs between two hundred and four hundred dollars and will tell you if you need a filter system or other treatment like a water softener.