Understanding Detected Iron, Median, and Range in Clay County Groundwater Data
The U.S. Geological Survey has sampled groundwater from the 111ALVM aquifer in Clay County, MO, analyzing iron levels in nine wells between 36 and 105 feet deep over 50 tests conducted from 2010 to 2026. Iron was detected in every sample, with a median concentration of 12,950 micrograms per liter and a range from 1,280 to 32,000 micrograms per liter. These measurements describe what instruments found in the area wells — not in your household water specifically. Detection does not mean a violation or unsafe condition; none of these results exceed federal thresholds for drinking water safety. Rather, they provide context for what iron concentrations typically appear in this regional aquifer.
If You Compare Clay County Data with Neighboring Counties’ Records
When looking at metallic taste concerns, comparing Clay County’s iron sampling against nearby counties can offer perspective but requires caution. Differences in geology, aquifer depth, and sampling methods can affect iron levels. A higher median in one area compared to another does not mean your well will have comparable taste issues. Regional data shows trends but does not determine individual household conditions. Confirming your own water’s quality needs a specific test of your source rather than applying neighboring data as a direct reference.
If You Want to Identify Causes, Start with Simple Checks Before Lab Testing
Metallic taste can stem from iron presence, plumbing materials, or other factors. Begin by observing water from multiple faucets to check if taste varies by point of use. Clear discoloration or staining on fixtures hints at iron deposits. Flushing stagnant water and cleaning faucet aerators can help rule out taste caused by pipe sediments or corrosion. If taste persists, a laboratory analysis of your household water will reveal precise iron concentration and other constituents influencing flavor. This step is essential since regional samples cannot confirm your water’s profile.
If You Notice Which Fixtures or Appliances Are Most Affected by Metallic Taste
In homes where iron affects taste, faucets with aerators, ice makers, and coffee machines often show the impact first. Iron particles can accumulate, altering taste and sometimes causing minor staining. The first water drawn after a period of inactivity may have a stronger metallic flavor due to settled iron. Knowing which outlets produce metallic taste helps target where filtration can be most effective. This insight is useful when selecting treatment designed to reduce iron-related taste issues.
If Your Household Is Large, a Second Home, or Seasonal Property, These Factors Matter
Larger households use more water daily, which may reduce iron settling in pipes compared to a home with lower water use. Conversely, second or seasonal homes with infrequent water use can experience stronger metallic taste when water sits in plumbing longer, allowing iron particles to accumulate. Treatment needs and water management should consider these usage patterns to maintain palatable water consistently.
This summary reflects the U.S. Geological Survey’s sampling of groundwater in Clay County’s 111ALVM aquifer as a regional reference. Confirming your water’s condition requires testing your own supply. For households seeking a targeted response, the Pentair Metallic-Tasting Water Filter ships ready to configure and is documented to address metallic taste associated with iron and similar factors found in regional waters.
Data source: U.S. Geological Survey groundwater sampling, Clay County, MO, aquifer 111ALVM, 2010-2026.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2026-05-12. 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 Iron in the 111ALVM aquifer (Clay County): 50 results from 9 wells, median 12950.0 ug/L, range 1280.0-32000.0 ug/L; none above any federal threshold