Well Water in Burnett County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Burnett County contains manganese, radon, and arsenic. These three contaminants are detected at levels that exceed EPA health standards and should concern well owners in this area.

These contaminants come from the rock beneath the county. Manganese and arsenic occur naturally in the mixed rocks that hold water here. Radon seeps from radioactive elements present in those same rocks and dissolves into groundwater as it moves through them.

Groundwater in this county is moderately hard, driven by calcium and magnesium released from the rock layers below. The moderate hardness here is common across wells throughout the county. Manganese also colors some water, though at the levels found here it is not always visible.

Arsenic, manganese, and radon are found at levels above EPA health standards in wells across Burnett County. Arsenic can damage the skin and increase the risk of cancer over many years of drinking it. Manganese affects how the brain works, especially in children, and can cause problems with learning and behavior. Radon is a radioactive gas that increases lung cancer risk when you breathe it in over time.

County wells show moderate hardness, which means you might see white scale buildup on faucets and fixtures or spots on dishes after washing. The good news is the hardness is not extreme, so it should not shorten the life of your water heater or other appliances. Your water should not have a bad taste or smell from minerals.

Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your well, since every well is different and yours could have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. We recommend a comprehensive metals and minerals panel to check for arsenic, manganese, and radon, which typically costs between $200 and $400. Treatment options like activated carbon filters or radon ventilation systems can help reduce these contaminants once you know your levels.