Well Water in Oconto County: What to Test and Why

Radon, lead, and arsenic are present in Oconto County groundwater and well owners should be aware of them. Lead and radon exceed EPA health standards and warrant attention, while arsenic levels are below the standard.

Radon seeps from the rock itself as radioactive material breaks down underground. Lead and arsenic dissolve slowly from the bedrock as water sits in contact with it over time. This area's mixed rock composition naturally contains these metals.

Groundwater in this county is hard, driven by calcium and magnesium from the local bedrock. As water moves through these rock layers, it picks up minerals that make it hard. Hardness is widespread across wells in Oconto County.

Lead and radon are found at levels exceeding EPA health standards in county wells. Lead can damage children's brains and nervous systems, affecting learning and behavior even at low exposures. Radon is a radioactive gas that increases lung cancer risk over time when you breathe it in. Arsenic is also a concern in some wells and can cause skin problems and increase cancer risk with long-term exposure.

County wells are hard water, which leaves white scale buildup on pipes, fixtures, and inside appliances. This buildup can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers. You may notice mineral deposits in your shower or spots on glassware after washing.

We recommend testing your well water, since every well is different and yours may have higher or lower levels 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. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel runs about $200-400. Treatment options like water softeners, activated carbon filters, or aeration systems can address different contaminants.