Well Water in Swisher County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Swisher County contains fluoride, arsenic, iron, and manganese at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminants are present at concerning concentrations that warrant attention.

These contaminants come from the natural rock and sediment of the High Plains aquifer underlying the county. As water moves slowly through the sandy and gravelly layers underground, it dissolves arsenic and fluoride from the rock itself. Iron and manganese also leach from minerals in those same geological materials.

Groundwater in this county is very hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium that dissolve from the rock as water passes through it. The moderate sodium levels and iron concentration add to the overall mineral character of the water. These mineral characteristics are widespread across wells throughout the county.

Wells in Swisher County commonly have arsenic and fluoride at levels exceeding EPA health standards. Arsenic can damage your kidneys and increase cancer risk over time. Fluoride at high levels can weaken bone strength. Iron and manganese are also present above health limits and can affect your organs with long-term exposure.

The county has very hard water, which causes white scale buildup on fixtures and in pipes. You may notice staining from iron on sinks and toilets. Hard water makes soap work poorly and leaves spots on dishes and laundry. The extreme hardness can shorten the lifespan of water heaters, dishwashers, and other appliances.

We recommend testing your well with a comprehensive metals and minerals panel to know exactly what is in your water. Every well is different, and your water may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. Testing is the only way to know what treatment your specific well needs. Water softeners and filtration systems like reverse osmosis can address these concerns.