Across the water systems that serve Osseo, Minnesota, Radium has appeared in EPA compliance samples — standard municipal treatment targets this contaminant, though detections in the compliance record indicate it has reached household taps at measurable levels.

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-06-04

Radium in Osseo Tap Water

Radium has been detected in Osseo, Minnesota drinking water at a maximum level of 4.7 pCi/L — below the EPA MCL of 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228).

This analysis covers 76,584 residents across 3 ZIP codes in Osseo.

Osseo's overall water quality grade is C (69/100).

Is Radium in Osseo Water Safe?

Radium was detected in Osseo water but currently falls within EPA limits. However, some health organizations argue the EPA MCL may not be protective enough.

If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis or ion exchange filter can reduce radium levels further.

Radium Levels by ZIP Code

Average radium level across Osseo: 4.7 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 Osseo Water

1. Reverse osmosis (NSF 58 certified) removes 90%+ of radium
2. Ion exchange (water softeners) can reduce radium
3. Point-of-use RO at kitchen tap is most cost-effective
4. GAC filters alone are NOT effective for radium

Look for filters certified under NSF 58 for radium removal.

Related

• Radium — National Overview
• Radium in Minnesota
• Minnesota Water Quality
• Osseo Water Quality
• Check Your ZIP Code