USGS: Some Utah wells have eleveated contaminants
Updated: 3/30/2009 1:26 pm | Published: 3/30/2009 1:25 pm
SALT LAKE CITY (AP) - The U.S. Geological Survey says some private wells in Utah have elevated levels of nitrate, radon and arsenic.
The agency sampled water between 1991 and 2004 as part of a 48-state assessment of private domestic wells. About 15 percent of the United States population relies on wells for drinking water.
Wells tested in Utah showed nitrate concentrations higher than federal drinking water standards. Nitrate is the most common inorganic contaminant. It's generally associated with fertilizer and other agricultural operations.
Radon and arsenic were also found in Utah and other states. They tend to come from geologic materials from underground aquifers.
The USGS is urging private well owners to work with local and state agencies to maintain water quality.
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Information from: Deseret News
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