MOJAVE, Calif. (AP) — More aquifers in the Southern California desert contain high levels of arsenic, boron, fluoride and other elements compared with the rest of the state.
That's according to a new study released Wednesday by the U.S. Geological Survey.
Naturally occurring contaminants were found in high concentrations in 35 percent of aquifers used for public supply in the desert region compared with 10 to 25 percent of the aquifer system elsewhere in California.
Scientists stress that water agencies typically treat groundwater supplies before they reach people's homes.
The study only tested raw, untreated groundwater and did not analyze tap water.
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