What USGS Groundwater Sampling Shows About Sulfide in Kane County Aquifer 110QRNR
The United States Geological Survey conducted groundwater sampling in the Kane County area, focusing on aquifer 110QRNR. Between June 2010 and May 2011, three sulfide results were detected across two wells at depths ranging from 24 to 38 feet. The median sulfide concentration recorded was 0.037 mg/L, with individual results ranging from 0.002 to 0.07 mg/L. All measured sulfide levels were below any federal or health-based thresholds for drinking water.
How Sulfide Enters Groundwater or the Distribution System in This Region
Sulfide compounds, often responsible for sulfur or "rotten egg" odors in water, can originate from natural breakdown of organic materials underground and bacterial activity in the aquifer. In Kane County's aquifer 110QRNR, these substances may dissolve into groundwater as it moves through rock and soil containing sulfur-bearing minerals or decaying organic matter. Additionally, sulfides can form in distribution systems if sulfate-reducing bacteria grow under certain conditions, though the USGS data specifically pertains to untreated groundwater samples.
How Many Samples and Wells Stand Behind the Figures, and What a Small Sample Means
The sulfur data for this region is based on only three samples from two wells. This limited dataset suggests initial tendencies but cannot represent all wells or water in Kane County aquifer 110QRNR. Variations will occur between individual wells depending on depth, location, and local geology. A small sample size like this means homeowners should consider testing their own water to confirm sulfide presence and concentration rather than relying solely on regional data.
A Worked Example: Reading the Record's Median and Range as a Homeowner Would
The median sulfide concentration of 0.037 mg/L indicates that half of the detected values are above and half below this number in the sampled wells. The range from 0.002 to 0.07 mg/L shows that sulfide levels can differ considerably within the area. For a household noticing a sulfur smell, matching their water's sulfide level to this regional context helps frame whether the smell is consistent with typical groundwater or likely due to other factors. However, this only outlines what may exist in the aquifer generally and not a household’s specific water supply.
How Public-System Records Differ from Private-Well Testing in What They Establish
The USGS data represent groundwater drawn directly from wells before any treatment or distribution. Public water system records typically include treatment steps and blend water from multiple sources, often diluting or removing sulfur odors before reaching taps. Private wells, however, draw water directly from the aquifer, making them more prone to the sulfur smell issues suggested by these samples. Thus, private well owners may find it necessary to test their water specifically for sulfide and related compounds.
Which Fixtures, Appliances or Processes Are Affected First and Why
Sulfur smell commonly appears first in water fixtures where water sits exposed to air, such as faucets, showerheads, and water heaters. Appliances like dishwashers or clothes washers may also show odor issues if supplied with untreated groundwater containing sulfides. This odor results from hydrogen sulfide gas released when sulfides react with water and air. Some water heaters can exacerbate the smell if bacterial activity occurs inside the tank.
Next Step: Confirm Your Water’s Sulfide Level With a Laboratory Test
To clarify whether your household water contains problematic sulfide concentrations, order a certified water test focused on hydrogen sulfide or total sulfide content. A reliable laboratory result showing the level relative to your personal tolerance and aesthetic standards is the best way to decide if treatment is needed. For homes experiencing sulfur smell consistent with sulfide presence, the Pentair Rotten-Egg Sulfur Smell Filter ships ready to configure for residential use as a direct means to reduce or remove the odor.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2011-05-31. 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 Sulfide in the 110QRNR aquifer (Kane County): 3 results from 2 wells, median 0.037 mg/L, range 0.002-0.07 mg/L; none above any federal threshold