Groundwater in Smyth County contains arsenic, chloride, and e. coli as detected contaminants. All of these are present at levels below EPA health standards, so contaminant levels here are low.
These contaminants come from natural sources in the Valley and Ridge rock formations beneath the county. The mixed rock layers here--sandstone, shale, and other stones--naturally release small amounts of arsenic as water passes through, while chloride occurs in trace amounts from mineral deposits in the rock. Bacteria like e. coli can enter groundwater where the rock layers are fractured or where surface water seeps down through soil and cracks.
Groundwater in this county is moderately hard, driven by calcium and magnesium dissolved from the rock as water flows underground. The Valley and Ridge geology contains minerals that slowly dissolve into the water over time. These mineral characteristics are widespread across wells in the county.
Wells in Smyth County do not contain contaminants that exceed EPA health standards at this time. However, arsenic, chloride, and bacteria are present in some county wells and deserve attention. Arsenic is a poison that builds up in the body over years and can cause serious health problems. Bacteria like E. coli can make you sick right away with stomach cramps and diarrhea. Chloride at elevated levels can be a concern for people on restricted diets.
The water in this county is moderately hard, which means you may notice some white scale buildup on faucets and shower heads. Hard water can make soap and shampoo less effective and reduce the cleaning power of your dishwasher. Over time, mineral deposits can shorten the lifespan of water heaters and other appliances. The good news is that iron and sodium levels are low, so you should not see rust staining or taste saltiness in your water.
Testing your well is the only way to know what is actually in your water, since every well is different and your well may have higher or lower levels than what is common in the county. We recommend a basic screening for bacteria and nitrate to start. If you want more information, a comprehensive panel checking for metals and minerals typically costs between two and four hundred dollars. Treatment options like activated carbon filters or chlorination can address many of these concerns.
| Contaminant | Samples ⓘ | % Above MCL ⓘ | Distribution ⓘ | Confidence ⓘ | Risk ⓘ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hardness | 7 | — | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| PFBS ⓘ municipal | 16 | — | Moderate | Safe | |
| pH | 4 | — | Low | Low ⓘ | |
| Sodium | 7 | — | Low | Low ⓘ |
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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