Samples and Wells Behind Kennebec County Sulfide Data
Four separate bedrock wells sampled in Kennebec County
The U.S. Geological Survey conducted groundwater sampling from September 1 to September 29, 2011. Four bedrock aquifer wells were sampled in Kennebec County, with depths between 164 and 320 feet. This small sample set provides a limited view of sulfide presence within this aquifer.
Implications of a small sample size
With only four samples, conditions may vary outside these measurements. This sample size offers general regional information and cannot identify individual well conditions or fluctuations over time.
Interpretation of 'Detected,' 'Median,' and 'Range' in Sampling
All four samples detected sulfide, but levels were low
Each sample detected sulfide, but concentrations ranged only from 0.0 to 0.1 mg/L, with a median of 0.0 mg/L. No results exceeded reporting limits or federal thresholds for sulfide.
Meaning of detected versus reporting limit
'Detected' indicates the instrument measured sulfide presence, not necessarily an issue. None surpassed a reporting or regulatory limit, signifying no federal health-based concerns in these wells.
Judging Treatment Capacity Relative to Household Demand
Current equipment may function but could be undersized
A household facing persistent sulfur smell despite existing treatment equipment might require a system sized to meet daily water usage. Treatment must handle all water flowing through to prevent sulfur odor breakthrough.
Steps to estimate daily water demand for treatment sizing
- Calculate average household water use per day in gallons.
- Compare to the flow rate capacity of current treatment equipment.
- Consider higher-capacity solutions if daily use exceeds treatment ability.
Reading a Certified Laboratory Sulfide Test for Your Water
Certified tests report sulfide concentration in mg/L
Testing your specific well water through a certified laboratory provides an exact sulfide concentration. These results determine if sulfur smell corresponds with measured sulfide levels and guide treatment requirements.
Test report components to understand
- Numeric sulfide concentration.
- Detection limits and reporting thresholds.
- Comparisons against federal secondary standards (aesthetic).
- Notes on sample collection date and depth.
Comparing Kennebec County Sulfide Data with Neighboring Areas
Regional similarities and variations in bedrock aquifers
Neighboring counties may show different sulfide ranges or frequencies. However, variations do not determine individual water quality. Without direct sampling, one cannot assume their well’s condition from adjacent areas.
Avoiding overinterpretation of regional data
Government sampling is a guide for regional trends, not a specific well evaluation. Use this data to understand general prevalence but rely on your test results for treatment decisions.
Summary and Further Information
Government data from four bedrock wells in Kennebec County sampled in 2011 found sulfide detected at low levels, all below federal thresholds. These measurements provide regional insight but do not define an individual well’s sulfide concentration or treatment needs. For persistent sulfur smell unaddressed by current equipment, testing your water to establish sulfide concentration and sizing treatment to household daily demand is critical. The Autotrol Rotten-Egg Sulfur Smell Filter system ships ready to configure as a solution documented to address sulfur odor from sulfide in water. For current and detailed data, consult the U.S. Geological Survey groundwater monitoring site for Kennebec County bedrock aquifers.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2011-09-29. 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 Sulfide in the BEDROCK aquifer (Kennebec County): 4 results from 4 wells, median 0.0 mg/L, range 0.0-0.1 mg/L; none above any federal threshold