Well Water in Tuscarawas County: What to Test and Why

Groundwater in Tuscarawas County contains manganese, sulfate, and chloride at levels that exceed EPA health standards. These contaminant levels are concerning enough that well owners should seek testing and consider treatment.

These contaminants come from the bedrock itself. The county sits on layers of shale and coal-bearing rock that naturally contain manganese and sulfate minerals. As groundwater moves slowly through cracks in this rock, these minerals dissolve into the water over time.

Groundwater in this county is very hard, with elevated calcium and magnesium, and it is also sulfur-bearing. The shale and coal layers release these minerals as water passes through small fractures over long periods. These characteristics are widespread across wells throughout the county.

Wells in Tuscarawas County commonly exceed EPA health standards for chloride, fluoride, manganese, radon, and sulfate. Manganese and radon are radioactive concerns--radon is a gas that increases lung cancer risk when it builds up indoors, and manganese harms the nervous system with long-term exposure. Chloride and fluoride at elevated levels can affect digestion and bone health. Sulfate in high concentrations can cause digestive problems, especially for children and people with certain illnesses.

The mineral content in county wells creates significant quality-of-life impacts. The water here is extremely hard, leaving white crusty scale on fixtures, pipes, and inside appliances like water heaters and dishwashers, which can shorten their lifespan. Iron stains sinks, toilets, and laundry orange or brown. The high sulfate and sodium levels may give the water a bitter or salty taste and a rotten-egg smell.

We recommend testing your well with a comprehensive metals and minerals panel, since multiple contaminants are present at elevated levels in the county. Every well is different--your well may have higher or lower concentrations than what is common here. Testing is the only way to know what is actually in your water so you can treat it properly. A comprehensive panel typically costs $200-400, and treatment options include water softeners paired with iron and radon removal systems.