Radium in Galesburg, IL Drinking Water
Radium data for Galesburg, Illinois · 31,805 residents · 2 ZIP codes
Over the past reporting period, water systems in Galesburg, Illinois have recorded Radium at detectable concentrations in EPA compliance samples.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
Radium in Galesburg Tap Water
Radium has been detected in Galesburg, Illinois drinking water at a maximum level of 19.7 pCi/L — 3.94x the EPA MCL.
This analysis covers 31,805 residents across 2 ZIP codes in Galesburg.
Galesburg's overall water quality grade is C (55/100).
Is Radium in Galesburg Water Safe?
If you live in an affected ZIP code, consider installing a reverse osmosis or ion exchange filter certified under NSF 58 and testing your water independently.
Radium Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | Radium Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 61401 | 19.7 pCi/L | 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) | Exceeds limit |
| 61402 | 19.7 pCi/L | 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) | Exceeds limit |
| 61401 | 4.96 pCi/L | 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) | OK |
| 61402 | 4.96 pCi/L | 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) | OK |
Average radium level across Galesburg: 12.33 pCi/L
Health Effects of Radium
- Increased risk of bone cancer (radium accumulates in bones)
- The body treats radium like calcium, storing it in bones
- Lifetime cancer risk of ~1 in 10,000 at 5 pCi/L
- No safe threshold for radioactive contamination
Health risk severity: High. Governed by the Radionuclides Rule.
How Radium Gets Into Drinking Water
- Natural radioactive decay in underground rock formations
- Groundwater sources (especially deep wells)
- Mining and industrial waste
- Higher in regions with specific geology (Midwest, parts of South)
What to Do About Radium in Galesburg Water
- Reverse osmosis (NSF 58 certified) removes 90%+ of radium
- Ion exchange (water softeners) can reduce radium
- Point-of-use RO at kitchen tap is most cost-effective
- GAC filters alone are NOT effective for radium
Look for filters certified under NSF 58 for radium removal.