Well Water in Poquoson city: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Poquoson contains arsenic, iron, and lead that well owners should be aware of. The good news is that contaminant levels here are low and do not exceed EPA health standards.

These contaminants come from the sandy and clay layers that make up the coastal plain geology beneath the city. Arsenic, iron, and lead occur naturally in these sediments and slowly dissolve into groundwater as it moves through the rock over time.

Groundwater in this county is notably high in sodium, which is the dominant mineral character of the water. Sodium concentrations are very high here because the aquifer is in a coastal area where saltwater has mixed with freshwater in the underground layers over long periods. High sodium levels are found in many wells throughout Poquoson and neighboring areas along the coast.

Wells in Poquoson city are generally in good shape when it comes to EPA health standards. The good news is that testing in this area has not found contaminants exceeding the limits set to protect human health. While arsenic, iron, and lead are present in some local wells, they are not showing up at dangerous levels across the county.

The main quality-of-life concern in this area is very high sodium in the water. Wells with elevated sodium can leave a salty taste and may be a concern for people on restricted sodium diets. Iron in the water can cause reddish staining on fixtures and laundry, though the levels in this county are moderate.

We recommend testing your well to find out 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, if any, your family needs. A basic test for bacteria and nitrate costs between fifty and one hundred dollars, and a comprehensive metals panel runs two hundred to four hundred dollars. Depending on results, water softeners or filters can address specific concerns.