Interpreting 'Detected,' 'Median,' and 'Range' in Shelby County Uranium Sampling
'Detected' means measurement above detection limit, not a safety violation.
In Shelby County's aquifer 112TRRC, uranium was detected in 22 out of 56 groundwater samples from 24 wells collected between 2011 and 2019. Detection indicates the presence of uranium but does not imply unsafe levels or regulatory exceedances.
'Median' shows the middle concentration among samples, not the individual well's value.
The median uranium concentration measured was 0.0465 micrograms per liter. This value summarizes the typical uranium levels found in area wells sampled but does not predict any specific private well’s uranium content.
'Range' indicates variability across sampled wells and times, not the levels in a single household well.
The uranium measurements spanned from 0.005 to 1.23 micrograms per liter. This range reflects differing conditions across wells sampling depths between 34 and 93 feet throughout the aquifer area.
Household Symptoms Consistent and Inconsistent with Uranium-Radium Presence
No distinct taste, odor, or color changes reliably indicate uranium or radium presence.
Uranium and radium do not typically cause noticeable taste or odor changes in water. If your water has unusual flavors or smells, these are usually unrelated to uranium or radium levels.
Stains or corrosion usually relate to other water constituents, not uranium or radium.
Visible stains or metallic corrosion on fixtures rarely suggest uranium or radium problems, as these elements do not directly cause such effects.
Concerns about uranium or radium rely on laboratory testing, not sensory cues.
The only reliable way to assess uranium or radium in your water is through comprehensive testing of your own well or tap water using certified laboratories.
Information to Collect Before Seeking Treatment Advice
Have recent test results from a certified lab for uranium, radium, and related radiological constituents.
Note your well depth and type, as uranium and radium levels can vary with aquifer characteristics and well construction.
Record the date when sampling occurred to understand water quality conditions at that time.
Keep track of all measurable values, including those reported as below detection limits.
Example: How to Understand Median and Range for Your Household Decisions
The median value (0.0465 ug/L) provides a typical concentration for Shelby County but does not indicate your water’s safety or uranium level.
The range (0.005 to 1.23 ug/L) shows that uranium presence varies significantly among wells in the aquifer, so your well could be above or below the median.
Since none of the samples exceeded federal uranium limits, the area sampling does not indicate widespread violation of safety standards.
How Public-Supply Records Differ from Private Well Testing
Public system records reflect quality at treatment plants and distribution points, not raw groundwater conditions.
Public records typically include testing for compliance with health-based uranium limits; Shelby County public water systems show no violations in uranium standards.
Private wells require individual testing to identify uranium or radium presence and concentrations specific to that water supply.
Area groundwater data assist in understanding regional trends but are not substitutes for well-specific analysis.
Deciding how to address uranium or radium concerns begins with understanding regional sampling data and recognizing their limits for individual well assessment. This page walked through interpreting government measurements, symptom evaluation, relevant information to gather, and differences between public and private water records to support informed household water decisions.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2019-06-11. These figures describe groundwater sampled in this area. They are not a test of any individual private well - only a test of that well can establish its own water.
On record: U.S. Geological Survey sampling of Uranium in the 112TRRC aquifer (Shelby County): 56 results from 24 wells, median 0.0465 ug/L, range 0.005-1.23 ug/L; none above any federal threshold
- ✓ 90-Day Money-BackNo restocking fees — return within 90 days.
- ✓ Manufacturer WarrantyGenuine Fleck · Pentair · VIQUA equipment.
- ✓ Free Expert SizingTalk to a specialist and buy the right system the first time.