Well Water in Columbia County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Columbia County contains iron, radon, and arsenic. Iron and radon exceed EPA health standards, while arsenic is present at levels below the health limit.

The bedrock beneath this county naturally contains minerals that dissolve into groundwater as water moves slowly through it. Iron comes from the rock itself. Radon is a radioactive gas that seeps from the rock into water. Arsenic occurs naturally in the minerals present in these deep layers.

Groundwater in this county is very hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium from the rock below. As water sits in contact with these minerals over time, dissolved calcium and magnesium accumulate. Very hard water is common across wells throughout the county.

Radon and iron are the main health concerns in Columbia County wells. Radon is a radioactive gas that enters groundwater from rock layers deep underground. Long-term exposure to radon through drinking water increases the risk of lung cancer. Iron at elevated levels can cause stomach and digestive problems with repeated exposure over time.

County wells are very hard, which means they contain high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium. This extreme hardness leaves white scale buildup inside pipes, water heaters, and dishwashers, and it can shorten the lifespan of these appliances. You may also notice rust-colored staining on fixtures and clothes from the high iron, and soap does not work as well in very hard water.

We recommend testing your well because every well is different and yours may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel typically costs $200 to $400 and is the only way to know what is actually in your water so you can treat it properly. Radon aeration systems and water softeners are both effective treatment options if testing shows these contaminants.