Jefferson County Water
We at Guthrie and Frey know that almost 20 years ago, Wisconsin legislators created a Nonprofit Source Water Pollution Abatement Program in order to control surface water runoff. But did you know that this program prioritizes lakes and streams to focus on land use and activities that impact water quality? One of these lakes being, Rock Lake. In 1995, Rock Lake, located in Jefferson County joined this list with priority designation, targeting the 12-square-mile watershed area that drains into the lake.
The 12 square mile area that drains into Rock Lake is known as the watershed. Rock Lake is classified as a drainage lake; meaning the lake has both an inlet and an outlet; with the inlet consisting of mostly stream drainage. Drainage lakes tend to vary in water quality due to runoff, and human activity near the watershed. Because of this unique watershed circumstance, Jefferson county has unique water challenges.
Water Challenges in Jefferson county:
While the Abatement program has come a long way, there is still a long way to go. Due to the nature of runoff water, contaminants – such as iron, arsenic, nitrates, and tannins – find their way into groundwater. Most Jefferson County homes get their water from deep wells that are susceptible to these contaminants.
Jefferson County has 7 municipal water systems: Fort Atkinson, Jefferson, Johnson Creek, Lake Mills, Palmyra, Waterloo, and Watertown. However, Fort Atkinson and Palmyra do not have a Wellhead protection plan; meaning there are no pollution prevention measures in place in the public water supply wellhead areas. Even though a Wellhead Protection Plan is put in place for the remaining 5 municipalities, there are cases where only a plan is in place for some wells in the area – not all. You may be wondering if your family and pets’ water is safe?
Guthrie and Frey can assist in protecting your family and pets from these water contaminants through testing the water entering your faucets, sinks, showers, etc., and suggesting a professional water treatment plan.
Request a QuoteWhat’s in my water?
| Contaminant | About the Contaminant | Signs of the Contaminant |
|---|---|---|
| Iron | Although small amounts do not have a negative effect on your health, Iron is a contaminant that contains bacteria that feed off it. However, Large amounts of iron can be hazardous to your health. Iron does not blend well with soap, leaving residue on your bathtub, appliances, and skin (causing clogged pores). | Metallic taste which carries into your food and beverages Leaves orange/red stains on anything the water touches Iron residue build up can cause pipes to clog, thus decreasing water pressure in your home. |
| Odor | If your water has an odor, this means there is a contaminant in the water. | Rotten egg smell |
| Arsenic | Arsenic has been found in several Ozaukee County homes causing negative effects on homeowner’s health. | The only way to detect arsenic is to have your water professionally tested. |
| Tannins | Tannins can be a sign that your water is largely coming into your home from surface water. Although tannins is not harmful on its own, if it can travel from surface water to your groundwater source, so can pathogens and bacteria. | Tannins cause a yellow stain on fixtures and laundry. |
| Nitrates | Nitrates are formed naturally in surface and groundwater. Nitrogen is essential for all living things, but when consuming higher levels through drinking water, it can be hazardous especially to infants, and pregnant women. Nitrate spread entering private wells can come from a few different sources, such as, manure spreading, agricultural fertilizers, legume cropping systems, and septic systems. | Like arsenic, the only way to tell if you have nitrates in your water is to have it professionally tested. |
Hard Water in Jefferson County
Hard water is not uncommon in Wisconsin, and although it is not likely to have a negative effect on human health (in small amounts), it does cause a buildup in appliances and pipes within your home. If the buildup becomes too much, it can cause problems in appliances, sometimes resulting in a full replacement. Knowing how hard your water is can help prevent these issues from arising. Water is measured in grains of hardness – the higher the number, the harder your water is. Jefferson County water typically ranges from 20-50 grains of hardness. Whereas soft water is typically below 1 grain of hardness, helping prevent appliance issues and failures.
A Few Reasons why Jefferson County Loves Guthrie & Frey
Extensive Warranties
Rental rates will never be raised
Free Installation
Competitive pricing and rent-to-own options available
From the Senior Technician in Jefferson County:
What’s the difference between well water and city water?
Depending on where you live in Jefferson county, your water will be sourced from various different areas (city water, private well, etc.). No matter where your water is sourced from, it has its unique pros and cons. Consider scheduling a water test to see what’s in your water.
Does Jefferson County have hard water?
Yes! Typically, in Jefferson County, we see a range from 20-100 grains of hardness in the water. Soft water is less than 1 grain of hardness. To see what level your water is at, schedule a free water test!
Is hard water bad?
Hard water does not have a negative effect on your health, however, the contaminants cause buildup on appliances, causing them to fail prematurely. Additionally, hard water will leave a film or red/orange stain on anything it touches.