Arsenic in Highlands County's Aquifer 120UFAQ: What Government Data Shows
The U.S. Geological Survey conducted groundwater sampling in Highlands County, Florida, specifically targeting the aquifer labeled 120UFAQ. Between April 28, 2015, and January 26, 2026, three samples from two separate wells—each between 1520 and 1530 feet deep—were analyzed to measure arsenic levels. These samples detected arsenic concentrations ranging from 0.22 to 0.28 micrograms per liter (ug/L), with a median concentration of 0.27 ug/L.
It is important to note that none of these results exceeded any federal arsenic threshold. However, presence in samples indicates arsenic occurs naturally in the aquifer system to some extent. These findings represent area-wide data and not any single water source. Individual water tests are necessary to determine exact arsenic levels in a specific commercial operation’s water supply.
Why Arsenic Is a Concern in Commercial Water Systems
Arsenic is a naturally occurring element found in soil and rocks. In water supplies, it can affect taste and odor and poses long-term health concerns at elevated concentrations. While the sampled values in Highlands County's aquifer are well below federal maximum contaminant levels, commercial water users must remain aware of arsenic presence due to regulatory requirements and operational needs.
Commercial operations often require water treatment solutions that not only address aesthetic and operational water quality factors but also comply with any local regulations that might be more stringent than federal guidance.
Determining the Appropriate Class of Arsenic Treatment
Choosing the correct treatment system begins with testing the specific water source to establish arsenic levels. Since arsenic concentration can vary greatly even within the same aquifer, this step is essential to ensure the selected system matches the water’s characteristics and volume needs.
Additional water quality parameters should also be evaluated because these influence treatment system performance and maintenance requirements.
How Reverse Osmosis Addresses Arsenic in Commercial Water Supplies
Reverse osmosis (RO) technology is a widely recognized and effective method for reducing arsenic concentrations in water. The WSP Whole House Reverse Osmosis System - Commercial, C-Series, designed for large-scale use, offers comprehensive filtration that removes arsenic along with other dissolved solids.
This RO system manages up to 210,000 grains of hardness removal capacity, ensuring suitability for high-demand commercial settings. It delivers treated water across the entire facility, supporting consistent water quality where it is critical.
Because this system ships ready to configure, it integrates seamlessly into existing water lines, supporting quick adaptation to commercial water treatment requirements.
Testing and Monitoring Recommendations for Commercial Operators
- Perform thorough water testing including arsenic concentration before selecting a treatment class.
- Include a registered laboratory analysis for comprehensive water chemistry.
- Consider periodic retesting to track water quality changes over time.
- Consult with water quality professionals to interpret results and align treatment choices with operational goals.
Understanding regional arsenic data in conjunction with your specific water test results will help in choosing a treatment system that balances performance, compliance, and cost-effectiveness.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. 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.
The documented solution
WSP Whole House Reverse Osmosis System - Commercial, C-Series