Well Water in Juneau County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Juneau County contains iron, chloride, and arsenic. Chloride and iron are present at levels that exceed EPA health standards, which means these contaminants deserve attention from well owners in this area.

These contaminants come from the deep rock layers beneath the county. Iron dissolves naturally from the ancient rock as groundwater moves slowly through it over many years. Chloride often enters from road salt that seeps down through soil into the water supply. Arsenic appears in small amounts from natural minerals in the bedrock itself.

Groundwater in this county is moderately hard, driven mainly by calcium and magnesium from the limestone and rock below. These minerals dissolve as water passes through and sits in contact with the bedrock for long periods. Moderately hard water shows up across most wells in Juneau County, though individual wells can vary in their exact mineral content.

Chloride and iron are the main health concerns in wells across Juneau County. Chloride at elevated levels can harm people with high blood pressure or heart disease and may damage household pipes. Iron above health standards can cause digestive problems and organ damage with long-term exposure.

Moderately hard water in this county leaves chalky scale buildup inside pipes and on fixtures. You may notice rust-colored stains on sinks, toilets, and laundry. Hard water also makes soap less effective for cleaning and bathing.

We recommend testing your well water since every well is different and your water may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel typically costs between two hundred and four hundred dollars and is the only way to know what is actually in your water so it can be properly treated. Iron filters or water softeners can help address these concerns.