Arsenic in Lee County Aquifers: What the Data Shows
Groundwater sampled from Lee County aquifers has been tested for arsenic by the U.S. Geological Survey, focusing on wells between 40 and 85 feet deep. In a set of four samples collected in late October 2019, arsenic was detected in every sample. The concentrations ranged from 0.37 to 2.9 micrograms per liter (µg/L), with a median value of 1.85 µg/L. Crucially, none of these measurements surpassed federal arsenic thresholds for drinking water.
This data highlights that while arsenic is present in the aquifer supplying the region, current levels are measured below any federal safety limit. Such results inform water users about the potential need for treatment but do not indicate that the raw water is non-compliant or unsafe by regulation.
Why Understanding Arsenic Matters for Commercial Water Use
Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that can enter groundwater through geological sources. Long-term exposure to elevated arsenic can have health implications, which is why regulatory standards exist. For commercial operators, especially those whose water is used in processes requiring strict quality standards, knowing the arsenic content is essential for compliance and product quality assurance.
Since the USGS data reflects area-wide aquifer conditions rather than specific wells, commercial operators need to perform individual water tests on their supply to ascertain their unique arsenic levels. This will clarify if the arsenic concentration in their water is comparable to the area’s reported range or indicates a different profile altogether.
Determining the Appropriate Treatment Class for Arsenic Removal
The choice of treatment depends on the contaminant concentration, water volume needs, regulatory requirements, and operational considerations. Arsenic removal technologies vary in complexity, capacity, and efficacy. Treatment systems designed for commercial applications must handle large volumes reliably while meeting water quality standards.
For arsenic concentrations within the reported range in Lee County aquifers, reverse osmosis (RO) technology is a proven method. RO systems reduce arsenic by forcing water through a semipermeable membrane that blocks contaminants based on molecular size and charge.
About the 1600 GPD Reverse Osmosis System
A water treatment solution designed for commercial use is the 1600 Gallons Per Day (GPD) Reverse Osmosis System. It features a substantial tank size configuration of four 40-gallon tanks, supporting significant operational volumes while ensuring consistent treated water availability. This system arrives ready to configure, allowing connection to your water supply and process without additional setup complexity.
While reverse osmosis systems can treat multiple contaminants, arsenic reduction is a key capability, making this technology suitable as a class of treatment when arsenic presence is a concern. Testing your water supply is a critical step to confirm whether this or another treatment approach is best for your specific arsenic levels and operational needs.
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.