Groundwater in Rockbridge County contains arsenic, chloride, and E. coli bacteria that well owners should be aware of. The good news is that contaminant levels in this county are low and do not exceed EPA health standards.
These contaminants come from natural sources in the carbonate rock below and from surface conditions. Arsenic occurs naturally in the limestone and other rock layers underground. Chloride and bacteria can enter wells from road salt and shallow soil contamination, though levels remain low across the county.
Groundwater in this county is hard, driven by calcium and magnesium released from the limestone bedrock as water moves through it. The carbonate rock dissolves slowly, adding these minerals to the water. Hard water characteristics are common across wells in Rockbridge County.
Arsenic, chloride, and E. coli bacteria are contaminants of concern found in wells across Rockbridge County. Arsenic can build up in your body over time and cause serious health problems. E. coli bacteria can cause stomach illness and other infections. Chloride at high levels can affect people with certain health conditions.
Wells in this county tend to have hard water, which means you may see white buildup on faucets and showerheads. Hard water can reduce how well soap works for cleaning. Over time, very hard water can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and dishwashers. You might also notice a slightly chalky taste in the water.
We recommend testing your well to find out exactly what is in your water. Every well is different, and your well may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. Testing is the only way to know what you're dealing with so it can be properly treated. A comprehensive panel checking for metals, bacteria, and minerals typically costs between two hundred and four hundred dollars, and treatment options like filtration or water softeners can address multiple concerns.
| Contaminant | Samples ⓘ | % Above MCL ⓘ | Distribution ⓘ | Confidence ⓘ | Risk ⓘ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| E. coli | 1* | 0% | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Hardness | 3 | — | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| pH | 3 | — | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Sodium | 3 | — | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Total Coliform | 1* | 0% | Low | Safe ⓘ |
MCL = Maximum Contaminant Level (EPA limit for public water; used as benchmark for private wells). Distribution shows % of sampled wells in each concentration band. Methodology.
* Microbial contaminants (E. coli, coliform) reflect only samples from the last 10 years.
Data shows potential risk — a certified test confirms whether your water is affected.
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