Well Water in La Crosse County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in La Crosse County contains manganese, radon, iron, and PFOA and PFOS at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These elevated concentrations mean well owners should test their water and consider treatment options.

The deep rock layers beneath this county naturally contain iron and manganese. As groundwater moves slowly through these rocks over time, it dissolves these metals. Radon comes from radioactive decay within the same bedrock. PFOA and PFOS are human-made chemicals that have contaminated some wells through local pollution or land-use practices.

Groundwater in this county is hard, driven by elevated calcium and magnesium released from the limestone and dolomite rock below. The slow movement of water through deep rock layers allows these minerals to accumulate. Hard water and elevated iron are widespread across wells throughout the county.

Wells in La Crosse County commonly contain iron, manganese, radon, and PFOA/PFOS at levels above EPA health standards. Iron and manganese can harm your organs over time with long-term exposure. Radon is a radioactive gas that increases lung cancer risk when you breathe it in. PFOA and PFOS are chemicals linked to health problems including liver damage and immune system effects.

The county's moderately hard water leaves chalky scale on fixtures and in pipes. You may notice rusty-brown stains on sinks and laundry from high iron levels. The water might taste metallic or have an unpleasant odor. Hard water shortens the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers because of mineral buildup.

Every well is different, and your well's contaminant levels could be higher or lower than what is common in the county. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your water so you can treat it properly. We recommend a comprehensive metals and minerals panel to check for all these concerns, which typically costs $200 to $400. Iron filters, radon ventilation systems, and specialized treatment for PFOA/PFOS removal are available options.