Environmental Health Division
Arsenic Levels in Groundwater
Arsenic is a common, naturally occurring element in the Earth's crust. Arsenic comes in two forms:
organic and inorganic. Elevated levels of inorganic arsenic, the more harmful form to humans, have been
found in the groundwater in some wells in Genesee County. Organic arsenic is not found in groundwater.
Arsenic is a regulated component in community (public) water systems; however, there are no maximum
permissible levels in private water systems. Historically public water supplies were required to have
arsenic concentrations below 50 parts per billion (ppb), that level is now scheduled to be reduced to
10 ppb over the next five (5) years. Currently various well construction methods and treatment devices
are being evaluated for their effectiveness in lowering arsenic levels.
The Genesee County Health Department recommends you know the arsenic concentration in your drinking
water, and share this information with your family physician. To request a sample bottle to test your
water, you may call the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality at (517) 335-8184. There is a $12
fee for the test.
For more information, call us at (810) 257-3603.
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