Understanding Pottawatomie County's Aquifer and Water Source

Water serving households in Pottawatomie County mainly comes from the N300CNRLOK aquifer, a deep groundwater source with wells sampled between 90 and 260 feet in depth. This aquifer's water reaches residential taps through private or community wells drawing from its underground layers.

Seasonal and Multi-Year Variation in Copper Levels

Sampling Dates and Consistency

Six wells were sampled intermittently from August 30, 2011, to March 26, 2013. This period captures part of seasonal cycles and variability over more than a year, providing a snapshot rather than continuous monitoring.

Range and Detection

Detected copper concentrations in the sampled wells varied from 0.8 to 1.9 micrograms per liter, while three samples registered below the reporting limit, showing the presence is not uniform or constant across all wells.

Reading the Record: Median and Range for Homeowners

Median Copper Level

The median result across all samples is 1.1 micrograms per liter, representing a mid-point value in the data set from these six wells in the area aquifer.

Interpreting Range Values

The lowest detectable copper was 0.8 micrograms per liter and the highest was 1.9 micrograms per liter. This range indicates that copper presence fluctuates but remains at low concentrations within the sampled wells.

Key Information to Record Before Seeking Treatment Advice

Well Depth and Water Source

Note the depth of your own well and whether it draws from the same aquifer, as local sampling reflects area trends, not individual well conditions.

Current Water Testing Results

Obtain recent tests from your actual water supply for copper levels to understand your home's specific situation and decide if treatment is needed.

Visible Signs and Impact

Record where copper staining occurs in your home’s fixtures or appliances to help match the water quality issue with possible treatment solutions.

Comparing Pottawatomie County's Copper Data with Neighbouring Counties

Data Context Without Overreading

While nearby counties may show different copper concentration data, variations can reflect distinct geology or well depths. Use local figures cautiously and avoid assuming they apply identically to your water supply.

Similar Sampling Methods

Check that neighbouring areas' data comes from similar well depths and aquifers to make meaningful comparisons regarding copper presence and treatment considerations.

What Pottawatomie County's Copper Range Means Compared to Federal Standards

Levels Well Below Any Federal Threshold

None of the copper measurements from local aquifer sampling exceed any federal regulatory limits, indicating copper levels are within typical ranges found in groundwater nationwide.

Detection Does Not Indicate a Safety Issue

Detection of copper in water is common but does not mean health risk or violation of standards. Exceedances of aesthetic secondary limits were not found in this data set.

Fixtures and Household Areas Most Impacted by Copper Stains

Visible Staining Locations

Fixtures such as sinks, bathtubs, and toilets often show copper staining first due to water contact and mineral deposits.

Appliances Using Water

Dishwashers and washing machines may also experience staining or buildup from copper in water, potentially affecting appearance or cleanliness.

Water-Using Surfaces and Materials

Areas with frequent water flow or splashing will tend to accumulate stains, emphasizing where treatment could provide the most benefit.

Summary and Further Information

The copper data presented here derives from six wells sampled in Pottawatomie County's N300CNRLOK aquifer between 2011 and 2013, reflecting area trends but not individual well water quality. Homeowners should test their water directly to confirm copper levels and consider the Autotrol Blue-Green Copper Stains Filter, which ships ready to configure, as a specialized option to reduce copper staining in household water. For details and updates, consult the U.S. Geological Survey groundwater data source for this location.

Where this information comes from

Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2013-03-26. 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 Copper in the N300CNRLOK aquifer (Pottawatomie County): 6 results from 6 wells, median 1.1 ug/L, range 0.8-1.9 ug/L; none above any federal threshold