Understanding Your Well Water in New Mexico

New Mexico has among the highest naturally occurring arsenic in US drinking water. Twenty percent of NM public water systems exceed the EPA limit. If you're on a private well, nobody is testing your water but you.

The Numbers

20% of NM public systems exceed arsenic limits

610 ppb highest arsenic measured in ABQ Basin (61x the EPA limit)

1.8 ft/yr water table decline in East Mountains

0 federal regulations on private well testing

Why It Matters

New Mexico's geology gives us stunning landscapes and some of the most challenging groundwater in the country. Volcanic rocks leach arsenic and uranium. Rift-zone faulting brings deep mineralized water to the surface. Closed basins trap minerals with no outlet. And aquifers across central New Mexico are declining — concentrating contaminants in the water that remains.

Unlike public water systems, private wells are not regulated by the EPA. No one tests your water, treats your water, or notifies you if something is wrong. That's on you.

Arsenic

NM has the highest naturally occurring arsenic in US drinking water. Tasteless, odorless, colorless. A Class I human carcinogen. Cancer can appear 40 years after exposure.

Uranium

Naturally occurring in NM's volcanic and sedimentary geology. Long-term exposure increases cancer and kidney disease risk. EPA limit: 30 μg/L.

Nitrates

Where wells and septic systems coexist — Corrales, North Valley, rural communities — nitrate contamination is a real risk. Especially dangerous for infants.

Hard Water

Most NM groundwater is hard to extremely hard. Edgewood tests up to 676 PPM (39.5 gpg). Bernalillo averages 319 PPM. It destroys plumbing and appliances.

Find Your Community

We've researched water quality conditions for communities across central New Mexico that rely on private wells. Each guide covers local geology, specific contaminants with real numbers, testing recommendations, and treatment options.