Radium in Walton, NE Drinking Water
Radium data for Walton, Nebraska · 296,000 residents · 1 ZIP code
In Walton, Nebraska, Radium has been detected in the public water supply — a contaminant that health agencies track because of documented effects associated with prolonged exposure at elevated concentrations.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
Radium in Walton Tap Water
Radium has been detected in Walton, Nebraska drinking water at a maximum level of 11 pCi/L — 2.2x the EPA MCL.
This analysis covers 296,000 residents across 1 ZIP code in Walton.
Walton's overall water quality grade is D (53/100).
Is Radium in Walton Water Safe?
Radium was detected in Walton 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 68461 | 11 pCi/L | 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228) | Exceeds limit |
Average radium level across Walton: 11 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 Walton 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.