Groundwater data for Shelby County from aquifer 124MMPS offers valuable insight but does not specify individual household water conditions. U.S. Geological Survey samples collected from 50 wells between 2010 and 2026 reveal iron concentrations measured as iron bacteria presence, with levels detected in 199 of 233 samples. The median concentration is 538.0 micrograms per liter, ranging from 4.1 to 8860.0 micrograms per liter. These samples come from wells 76 to 1140 feet deep. Importantly, none exceeded federal health thresholds, indicating no federal health-based violations in this area.
If You Have a Large Household, a Second Home, or Seasonal Use
The significance of iron bacteria-related water issues may change depending on household size or occupancy pattern. Larger households typically consume more water, which can increase the impact of iron bacteria, potentially affecting plumbing and fixtures more quickly. Seasonal or second homes might experience changes in water quality due to stagnation or less frequent use, which can promote bacterial growth differently than continuously used systems. Equipment choices should factor in usage volume and frequency to maintain consistent water quality.
If You See Terms Like 'Detected,' 'Median,' and 'Range' in Sampling Reports
The terms found in government water sampling reports reflect measurement findings, not individual well conditions. 'Detected' means iron bacteria were measured, not that there is a health or safety violation. The 'median' represents the middle value among many sample results and offers a typical concentration reported within this aquifer. The 'range' shows the minimum and maximum recorded levels, illustrating variability across wells and time. These figures provide context but do not predict an individual household's water quality without specific testing.
If You Receive a Certified Laboratory Test for Your Water
A certified lab test reports precise iron bacteria concentrations for your water source. This test complements area-wide data by confirming actual water conditions at your home. Reading a lab report requires noting the concentration level, detection limits, and any guidance notes provided. This individualized data helps determine if specialized equipment like a Fleck Iron Bacteria & Slime Filter is appropriate to address your water treatment needs.
If You Want to Interpret the Median and Range Based on Shelby County Sampling
Consider the median (538.0 micrograms per liter) as a typical detected value in the aquifer, with the range indicating that some wells have much lower or higher concentrations. Remember that these values do not indicate any regulatory health violation. Think of them as a map showing variability in iron bacteria presence among wells, not a direct reflection of your well's condition.
If You Are Assessing the Role of Plumbing Material and Age
Plumbing characteristics may influence how iron bacteria manifest once water enters your home. Older or corroded pipes can foster bacterial slime buildup alongside iron deposits, potentially worsening staining or clogging independently of source water iron bacteria levels. Choosing water treatment equipment should consider plumbing condition since surface biofilm and slime issues may persist even after source water treatment.
This summary reflects U.S. Geological Survey sampling of 50 wells in Shelby County’s aquifer 124MMPS through mid-2026. For complete data and updates, consult the official U.S. Geological Survey groundwater database.
The Fleck Iron Bacteria & Slime Filter ships ready to configure and is designed to address iron bacteria and slime accumulation in household water systems, making it a practical choice for those seeking targeted treatment based on these area data considerations.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2026-06-05. 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 124MMPS aquifer (Shelby County): 233 results from 50 wells, median 538.0 ug/L, range 4.1-8860.0 ug/L; none above any federal threshold
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