Radium in Taft, CA Drinking Water
Radium data for Taft, California · 20,500 residents · 1 ZIP code
People in Taft, California who get water from the public supply are among residents whose systems have returned Radium detections in EPA compliance testing.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
Radium in Taft Tap Water
Radium has been detected in Taft, California drinking water at a maximum level of 11.2 pCi/L — 2.24x the EPA MCL.
This analysis covers 20,500 residents across 1 ZIP code in Taft.
Taft's overall water quality grade is B (83/100).
Is Radium in Taft Water Safe?
Radium was detected in Taft 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
| ZIP Code | Radium Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 93268 | 11.2 pCi/l | 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) | Exceeds limit |
Average radium level across Taft: 11.2 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 Taft 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.