Well Water in Pepin County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Pepin County contains iron and lead at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Both contaminants are present at concentrations high enough to warrant attention from well owners.

Iron and lead come from the rock layers deep underground that supply water to this county's wells. As water moves slowly through these rock layers over many years, it dissolves iron naturally present in the stone. Lead can enter from old pipes in some wells, but it also occurs naturally in the bedrock. The slightly acidic character of the groundwater here makes it more able to pull these metals out of the rock.

Groundwater in Pepin County is moderately hard, driven primarily by iron and moderate amounts of calcium. Iron concentrates in the water because of the rock composition and the slow movement of water through these deep layers. Elevated iron is common across many wells in this county and in neighboring counties that share the same rock system.

Wells in Pepin County commonly have iron and lead at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Iron at elevated levels can affect the color and taste of drinking water. Lead exposure is especially harmful to children and can damage brain development and learning. Both metals can accumulate in the body over time with continued exposure.

Hard water is moderately common in county wells and causes visible staining on fixtures, dishes, and laundry. Iron leaves reddish or brownish marks that are hard to remove. The mineral buildup can also create scale inside pipes and on appliances, which may shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers over time.

Testing your well is the only way to know what is actually in your water, since every well is different and yours could have higher or lower levels than the county average. We recommend a comprehensive metals and minerals panel, which typically costs between $200 and $400. Treatment options like iron removal systems or point-of-use filters can help reduce these contaminants once you understand what you're dealing with.