Well Water in Meigs County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Meigs County contains radon, manganese, iron, sulfate, chloride, and PFOA. Several of these contaminants exceed EPA health standards and warrant immediate attention.

These contaminants come from the rock layers beneath the county. Meigs County sits above Pennsylvanian-age shale and coal-bearing rock that naturally holds metals and minerals. As groundwater moves slowly through cracks in this dense rock, it dissolves iron, manganese, and sulfate from the stone itself. Radon gas seeps from the rock into the water. Past and present coal mining activity in the region has also raised sulfate and chloride levels.

Groundwater in this county is very hard, driven by elevated iron and hardness minerals from the shale bedrock. Water sitting in contact with iron-rich rock releases these metals into your well over time. These characteristics show up across wells throughout the county.

Sulfate, PFOA, chloride, iron, manganese, and radon all exceed EPA health standards in wells across Meigs County. Manganese can affect brain development and nervous system function, especially in children. Radon is a radioactive gas that enters the body through drinking water and breathing. PFOA is a chemical that builds up in the body over time and can harm the immune system and thyroid. Sulfate and chloride at these levels can cause digestive problems. Iron and these other metals pose long-term health risks with repeated exposure.

Hard water in this county leaves thick white scale buildup on pipes, fixtures, and appliances. Iron causes orange-brown or rust-colored stains on sinks, tubs, and laundry. The elevated sulfate can give water a bitter or unpleasant taste. Extremely hard water shortens the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers.

We recommend testing your well through a state-certified lab. Every well is different, and your well may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. A comprehensive metals and minerals panel costs roughly $200-400 and is the only way to know what is actually in your water so it can be properly treated. Treatment options include radon removal systems, manganese and iron filters, and whole-house softeners.