LEAD AND COPPER IN DOMESTIC WELLS IN WEST GEORGIA

Water is a vital part of all biological processes on this planet. When human contamination enters the water supply the results can set the delicate homeostasis of life into a downward spiral. Lead and copper are two elements that occur naturally, however the majority of lead and copper that enters the drinking water for human consumption is human imposed. Elevated lead levels in children can lead to learning disabilities and behavioral problems; very high levels of lead can lead to coma or even death. Copper is an element that is vital to the human body, however in excess it can lead to digestive troubles and death. The EPA maximum standard for lead is 15 ppb and 1.3 ppm for a maximum copper standard. The Hach Scanning Analyzer was utilized to test ground water from residential wells in Carroll County, Georgia for this study. This method is EPA approved for lead but not copper. Residential wells are not regulated by any authority and homeowner’s may not be aware of the need for monitoring water quality from these wells. Outdated well pumps, plumbing and corrosive water are the most common way for lead and copper to enter the drinking water. Out of the 50 samples that have been tested for lead, ten percent of them have lead levels that exceed EPA standards. Our results have found a minimum dissolved lead amount of 2 ppb and a maximum amount of 860 ppb with an average value of 23 ppb total. Most lead values are between 2 and 7 ppb. Out of the same 50 samples the copper results show only two exceeded the EPA standard. The minimum dissolved copper amount is below detectable levels and a maximum amount of 2 ppm with an average value of 0.15 ppm. Plans for this research in the future consist of plotting the well locations in a GIS program and then comparing the results to the rock unit’s particular geochemistry, as well as, how these results relate to the age of the structure itself or the well. The results of this study will be sent to the homeowners so that they can take action to correct this problem, and live healthier lives.