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Government Sampling Records for Lee County Aquifer 230SDMR

The U.S. Geological Survey collected groundwater samples from 53 wells in Lee County’s aquifer 230SDMR between April and August 2012. Iron was detected in 33 of these wells with a median concentration of 11.3 micrograms per liter (ug/L) and a range from 3.3 to 330.0 ug/L. The wells sampled were between 60 and 370 feet deep.

Impact of Larger and Less Frequent Household Use

In homes with more occupants, second homes, or seasonal properties, water use patterns differ significantly. Greater volume demands may exceed the capacity of existing water treatment equipment to control metallic taste, leading to noticeable flavor changes. In seasonal homes, periods of stagnation can alter water chemistry, possibly intensifying metallic taste when water use resumes.

Seasonal and Multi-Year Variations Detected in Sampling

The sampling occurred over a four-month period in spring and summer 2012, showing iron levels ranged broadly across the wells. This indicates temporal and location variability is typical for groundwater in this area. Iron concentrations fluctuate not only by season but also year to year, depending on factors like rainfall and aquifer recharge.

Certified Lab Tests: What They Include and How to Interpret

A certified laboratory test for iron from your own well water would quantify iron concentration in micrograms per liter or parts per billion. Knowing this allows comparison to regional data and assessment of treatment needs. It's important to sample water from point-of-use taps and follow lab directions precisely. Testing reveals individual household's iron levels which may differ from area samples.

Understanding the Range Against Federal Standards

Federal standards include secondary limits for iron concentration that address aesthetic concerns such as taste and staining. None of the 2012 Lee County samples exceeded federal limits related to safety. Detecting iron at or below these limits does not indicate a health risk but can affect taste. Area data highlight what is typical locally but do not alone determine household water quality.

Example: Median and Range as a Homeowner's Reference

With a median iron concentration of 11.3 ug/L and detections up to 330.0 ug/L, a homeowner noticing metallic taste should consider this range. If their water test shows iron levels towards the higher end, treatment may be warranted. Lower readings may still cause taste issues depending on other factors like pH or plumbing materials.

First Fixtures and Appliances to Show Metallic Taste Effects

Metallic taste often appears initially in kitchen taps used for drinking and cooking. Appliances like coffee makers and ice machines, which rely on fresh water, are also sensitive. Bath and laundry fixtures may detect taste changes less readily though staining or discoloration might occur over time.

What Area Data Does Not Establish

Area sampling does not define the exact iron concentration in your water. It does not indicate if your water exceeds any standard or whether your metallic taste has a health risk. Only a test from a certified laboratory analyzing your specific well or municipal supply can provide that information. Consider using technology like the Fleck Metallic-Tasting Water Filter, which ships ready to configure, as a documented approach to managing metallic taste once your water’s iron level is known.

Where this information comes from

Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2012-08-09. 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 230SDMR aquifer (Lee County): 53 results from 53 wells, median 11.3 ug/L, range 3.3-330.0 ug/L; none above any federal threshold