When you turn on a faucet in Mason County, IL, you might notice dry or itchy skin after bathing, which can point to mineral content in your water supply. Understanding the typical mineral range in your area's aquifer offers insight into this common concern.
Interpreting Local Mineral Concentrations
Median and Range of Calcium and Magnesium in Mason County Aquifer
The U.S. Geological Survey sampled two separate wells in Mason County's aquifer from October 2022 through July 2025. Results show a median total concentration of 303.5 mg/L for calcium and magnesium combined, ranging between 281.0 to 334.0 mg/L. These readings represent mineral levels that characterize groundwater in the sampled area but do not specify your home's water.
Evaluating the Sampling Basis
Number and Depth of Wells Sampled
The data set includes 20 separate results from two wells, each ranging in depth from 10 to 22 feet. While this provides a snapshot of mineral concentrations typical for the area’s shallow aquifer, it is a limited sample size and depth range, so individual well conditions may differ.
Understanding Laboratory Water Testing for Minerals
What a Certified Test Reports
A certified laboratory analyzes water samples to measure total calcium and magnesium, reported in milligrams per liter (mg/L). The results indicate mineral presence but require professional interpretation for residential treatment decisions. Testing your own water is essential because localized variations can exist beyond area medians.
Differences Between Public Records and Private Well Testing
Scope of Regional Data Versus Individual Analysis
Public system data documents mineral levels in local groundwater broadly but does not replace private well testing. Mason County’s regional samples do not establish exact conditions at your property. A private test will reveal what minerals your household water contains, helping to tailor any response.
Dry Skin Versus Related Water Issues
Distinguishing Dry Skin from Other Water Effects
Dry skin linked to water usually stems from mineral content that can leave residue or alter skin moisture balance. It is separate from irritation caused by detergents, temperature, or underlying skin conditions unconnected to water quality. Mineral content itself detected in Mason County is below any federal health thresholds.
What Not to Assume from Area Mineral Data
Area mineral levels reflect regional sampling and do not confirm your well’s water profile. Detection of minerals at these levels in public data is not a violation or unsafe condition. Treatment decisions depend on testing your household water. The C-Series Dry, Itchy Skin System ships ready to configure and can address mineral-related skin dryness once your specific water profile is known.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2025-07-29. 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 Hardness, Ca, Mg in the aquifer (Mason County): 20 results from 2 wells, median 303.5 mg/L, range 281.0-334.0 mg/L; none above any federal threshold