Arsenic in Mohave County Water: Understanding Local Aquifer 220NAVJ Sample Results

If you notice a metallic taste or are concerned about arsenic in your Mohave County home water, it’s important to understand what local water data shows. The U.S. Geological Survey conducted groundwater sampling of wells in aquifer 220NAVJ within Mohave County in February 2011. Their findings provide insights but cannot determine your household’s exact water quality without testing your well specifically.

What Do 'Detected', 'Median', and 'Range' Mean in the 2011 USGS Sampling Record?

The USGS sampled three separate wells, each between 93 and 205 feet deep, and measured arsenic concentrations. Arsenic was detected in all three samples, with a median value of 3.5 micrograms per liter (µg/L) and a range from 1.7 to 3.9 µg/L. Detection means the measuring instruments found arsenic present, but it is not a violation or indication of unsafe water. The median represents the middle value of the three samples, while the range shows the lowest and highest concentrations found. These results reflect the area aquifer conditions, not your specific household well.

What Happens When Arsenic Is Left Untreated in Household Water Over Time?

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that can dissolve into groundwater. Consuming arsenic over extended periods has been associated with potential health concerns in some cases, though risks depend strongly on concentration and individual exposure. Without addressing arsenic, a household may face uncertain water quality in the long term. Monitoring through testing is essential to understand if treatment is needed for your well water.

Why Do Aesthetic Secondary Standards Differ from Health-Based Limits for Arsenic?

Government water standards include aesthetic secondary standards and health-based limits. For arsenic, federal health-based limits set maximum allowed concentrations to protect public health. The 2011 samples from Mohave County’s aquifer 220NAVJ did not exceed any federal arsenic thresholds. Aesthetic standards, which sometimes address taste or staining, are separate and do not imply a health risk. Understanding this distinction helps interpret what detected arsenic levels mean for your water’s safety and quality.

What Is the Order to Rule Out Arsenic Concerns, From Simple Checks to Laboratory Testing?

• Start with visually inspecting your water for unusual coloration or odors, although arsenic itself is odorless and tasteless in typical concentrations.
• Check local Mohave County water quality reports to see if arsenic has been reported near your area.
• If you rely on a private well, the only way to know your actual arsenic level is to have household water tested by a certified laboratory.

What Does a Certified Laboratory Test Report for Arsenic Look Like, and How Should You Interpret It?

A certified lab test result will show the concentration of arsenic in micrograms per liter (µg/L). Compare your result to the current federal maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 µg/L for arsenic in drinking water. Results below this level comply with federal health-based standards. Testing only your water can confirm if your household exceeds or falls below this guideline, which informs treatment choices.

For households in Mohave County concerned about arsenic, especially those using private wells, the Autotrol Arsenic Filter provides a proven method to reduce arsenic concentrations. This system ships ready to configure, allowing you to manage arsenic based on your own water test results effectively.

Where this information comes from

Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2011-02-08. 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 Arsenic in the 220NAVJ aquifer (Mohave County): 3 results from 3 wells, median 3.5 ug/L, range 1.7-3.9 ug/L; none above any federal threshold