Well Water in Swain County: What to Test and Why

Radon, manganese, and arsenic are present in Swain County groundwater. Manganese and radon exceed EPA health standards in some wells, making them the main health concerns for well owners here.

These contaminants come from the rock itself. Manganese and arsenic occur naturally in the carbonate and mixed rocks of the Piedmont and Blue Ridge. Radon is produced by radioactive minerals in the bedrock and seeps into groundwater as it moves through cracks and spaces in the stone.

Groundwater in this county is soft and low in iron, carrying very little dissolved minerals overall. The carbonate rocks here do not contain high levels of calcium and magnesium that would make water hard, and iron concentrations stay low across most wells. This soft water character is common throughout the county.

Wells in Swain County have been found to contain manganese and radon at levels that exceed EPA health standards. Manganese can affect the nervous system and development in children when consumed in high amounts over time. Radon is a radioactive gas that enters water from underground rock and soil, and breathing radon gas that comes out of water can increase the risk of lung cancer.

The good news is that the minerals in county well water are at low levels, so you probably won't see staining from iron, taste problems from sodium, or the crusty buildup that hard water causes. The water in this area is naturally soft, which is easier on appliances and plumbing.

We recommend testing your well water to find out what is actually in it, since every well is different and your water may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. A comprehensive panel that checks for manganese, radon, and other contaminants runs between $200 and $400. Testing is the only way to know if treatment is needed, and options like activated carbon filters or radon removal systems can address these concerns if levels are high in your well.