What Government Data Tells Us About Heavy Metals in Broward County's Aquifer
Residents of Broward County drawing water from the aquifer identified as 112BSCNN may be concerned about heavy metals like barium in their household water. The U.S. Geological Survey has conducted groundwater sampling in this region, collecting 62 samples from 42 wells ranging from 10 to 152 feet deep over a ten-year period from 2010 to 2020. These samples provide a useful overview of what is present in the local groundwater but do not represent individual wells or specific household water.
The median barium level found in these samples was 17.2 micrograms per liter (ug/L), with observed values ranging from 6.85 ug/L up to 81.6 ug/L. Importantly, none of these results exceeded federal safety thresholds for barium concentration. Detection of barium in the water is consistent across all samples, indicating its natural presence in the aquifer, but no sample suggests a violation of regulatory limits or a direct health hazard.
What Detection Means for Your Household Water
While the data shows that barium is detectable throughout Broward County’s aquifer 112BSCNN, this does not confirm the levels in your private well or municipal supply. The only way to determine the concentrations in your household water is to have your water independently tested by a certified laboratory. Testing provides precise information tailored to your water source and usage, which is essential before taking any action.
Understanding Barium: Effects and Concerns
Barium naturally occurs in groundwater in varied amounts. At typical environmental concentrations like those recorded in Broward County, barium does not usually pose immediate health risks. However, elevated barium levels can affect water taste, and in rare cases, long-term exposure to higher concentrations may have health implications, mainly if the water is used for drinking daily without treatment.
Since the aquifer here shows no readings above federal limits, the concern is primarily about ensuring ongoing water quality through monitoring and proper treatment tailored to the water tested at your property.
Addressing Heavy Metals in Household Water
For households wishing to reduce heavy metals detected by testing — including barium and nitrate ions — dedicated water treatment technologies are available. One documented option suitable for residential use is the WSP 10 GPM Whole House Nitrate Reduction System, which uses adsorptive media technology. This system is designed to lower specific dissolved substances from the entire water supply entering the home, not just at a single tap, providing comprehensive water quality improvement.
The system ships ready to configure with your household plumbing setup and does not require specialized on-site services. It operates at a flow rate of up to 10 gallons per minute, which is adequate for typical residential water demands.
Next Steps for Broward County Households
- Obtain water testing focused on heavy metals such as barium at a state-certified laboratory to accurately gauge your water quality.
- Compare your test results with federal and state guidelines to understand if treatment is advisable.
- Consider water treatment solutions like the WSP 10 GPM system if testing reveals elevated levels of concern.
- Maintain regular testing schedules since groundwater quality can change over time due to environmental factors.
By understanding local water quality data and confirming your own water conditions through testing, you can make informed decisions that ensure your household water is safe, tasteful, and suitable for all your daily needs.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2020-11-19. 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 Barium in the 112BSCNN aquifer (Broward County): 62 results from 42 wells, median 17.2 ug/L, range 6.85-81.6 ug/L; none above any federal threshold
The documented solution
- ✓ 90-Day Money-BackNo restocking fees — return within 90 days.
- ✓ Manufacturer WarrantyGenuine Fleck · Pentair · VIQUA equipment.
- ✓ Free Expert SizingTalk to a specialist and buy the right system the first time.