What Government Sampling Reveals About Arsenic in Walton County's Aquifer
The U.S. Geological Survey conducted groundwater sampling in Walton County, Florida, focusing on the 120UFAQ aquifer which supplies many local wells. Data collected from two separate wells between 2015 and early 2026 show that arsenic was detected in all three samples, with concentrations ranging from 0.49 to 1.5 micrograms per liter (ug/L) and a median value of 1.4 ug/L. These wells were sampled at depths between 500 and 621 feet.
Importantly, none of these measurements exceeded any federal safety thresholds. This means that while arsenic is present in this aquifer, government records do not classify these levels as violations or health-based exceedances. However, the presence of arsenic, even at low concentrations, can be a concern for some households due to arsenic's known health effects when consumed over long periods.
What Arsenic Means for Your Household Water
Arsenic is a naturally occurring element that can enter groundwater through mineral deposits and soil erosion. It does not cause taste or odor issues, so detecting its presence usually requires laboratory analysis. Long-term exposure to elevated arsenic levels through drinking water has been linked to various health risks, prompting federal and state agencies to monitor its concentration in public and private water sources.
Given that the government data reflects area-wide sampling and not your specific well, the only way to determine your household water’s arsenic level conclusively is to conduct a comprehensive water test focused on arsenic content from your water source.
Testing Your Home Water for Arsenic
If you are concerned about arsenic in your well or tap water, requesting a water quality test from a certified laboratory is essential. Testing will provide exact results of your water’s arsenic content, allowing you to assess whether treatment is needed. Local health departments or state environmental agencies can recommend certified testers familiar with arsenic sampling protocols.
How to Address Arsenic in Household Water
When arsenic tests show levels of concern, treatment options that reduce arsenic effectively include filtration systems equipped with adsorptive media designed to capture arsenic particles. One such solution for residential use is the WSP 10 GPM Whole House Arsenic Reduction System. This system uses specialized adsorptive media technology to treat all the water entering your home, addressing arsenic without affecting water flow at a capacity up to 10 gallons per minute.
Since arsenic does not affect water taste or smell, a treatment system that runs continuously ensures all household water is protected, including water used for cooking, bathing, and drinking.
Summary
- The Walton County 120UFAQ aquifer has detectable arsenic levels based on groundwater samples, all below federal limits.
- Government data applies broadly to the aquifer, not individual wells, so personal water testing is necessary.
- Arsenic is tasteless and odorless, making testing essential for effective identification.
- The WSP 10 GPM Whole House Arsenic Reduction System offers a targeted technology solution using adsorptive media to reduce arsenic throughout household water.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2026-01-14. 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 120UFAQ aquifer (Walton County): 3 results from 2 wells, median 1.4 ug/L, range 0.49-1.5 ug/L; none above any federal threshold