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Understanding 'Detected,' 'Median,' and 'Range' in Oakland County Sampling Data

U.S. Geological Survey sampling of groundwater from aquifer 112OTSH in Oakland County found alpha particle activity—which is linked to uranium and radium—detected in all 30 tests from 15 wells. These tests were done between August and September 2016, at depths ranging from 11 to 49 feet. The reported median value was 2.45 picocuries per liter (pCi/L), with a range from below zero to 7.0 pCi/L. None of these results exceeded any federal health standards, which means no sample tested above the safety thresholds established for uranium and radium levels.

It is important to know that 'detected' simply means measurable amounts were found, not that there is a problem. The median represents the middle value of all measurements, providing a central estimate of typical groundwater conditions in this aquifer. The range shows the highest and lowest observed values across all samples taken, reflecting natural variation in the area.

How a Homeowner Can Read the Median and Range for Their Own Household

As a homeowner, you might see that the median alpha particle measurement in your area aquifer is 2.45 pCi/L and the range extends up to 7.0 pCi/L. This tells you that groundwater sampled near you contained some activity but at levels consistent with federal guidelines. However, it does not indicate the concentration in your own well water—it only reflects the tested wells in the region.

Because your specific household well or water source may differ, the only way to know your water’s uranium and radium levels precisely is to conduct a direct test of your own water supply. This test will provide results to compare against federal safety thresholds and help determine if treatment is advisable.

Differences Between Public System Records and Private Well Water Testing

Public water systems follow regulatory monitoring and publish records reflecting system-wide water quality. These records often show compliance with health-based standards but represent the collective system, not an individual household. Private wells, like those common in Oakland County's aquifer 112OTSH area, do not have routine public testing, so household-level testing becomes necessary to understand personal water quality.

Government sampling data, such as the USGS results cited here, offer a regional snapshot but cannot substitute for direct private well testing. While the area data indicates uranium and radium levels tend to be within accepted safety margins, only your own water test will reveal if your household water is typical or requires treatment.

Additional Considerations for Commercial, Industrial, and Large or Seasonal Households

Commercial and industrial water users face different water volume and quality needs, requiring more frequent and detailed testing beyond what residential users need. They should consider additional measurements, regulatory requirements, and operational impacts specific to their water use.

Large households or properties used seasonally may also have unique water treatment challenges. For example, water sitting unused can change in quality, and peak usage might demand higher treatment capacity. However, the fundamental step remains testing the specific water source to confirm uranium and radium concentrations before selecting an appropriate treatment system.

Next Steps: Testing and Treatment Decision

If you are evaluating the need for uranium and radium treatment in Oakland County’s aquifer 112OTSH area, the essential next step is to have your own water tested for alpha particle activity. If results indicate elevated levels approaching or exceeding health-based guidelines, a specialized treatment like the Pentair Uranium & Radium System—which has a grain capacity of 32,000—can help address these contaminants effectively.

Ordering a direct water test for your household well or tap water will provide the clear data necessary to decide confidently on water treatment options tailored to your home's specific conditions.

Where this information comes from

Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2016-09-27. 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 Alpha particle in the 112OTSH aquifer (Oakland County): 30 results from 15 wells, median 2.45 pCi/L, range -0.6-7.0 pCi/L; none above any federal threshold