Belief: Chromium(VI) Levels Go Up or Down Between Source and Tap
The public water system supplying Pierre, Hughes County draws from surface water sources. According to EPA records from 2013 to 2015, one detection out of 26 samples reported chromium-6 at 0.032 micrograms per liter (µg/L), equal to 0.032 parts per billion (ppb). However, hexavalent chromium can exist in different oxidation states depending on water chemistry and treatment processes. For example, oxidation or reduction reactions may alter chromium species as water moves through treatment plants, distribution mains, and home plumbing. These chemical transformations can affect the form but not the total chromium quantities measured.
Belief: Ion Exchange and Reverse Osmosis Equally Target Chromium-6
Chromium(VI) presents unique challenges to water treatment technologies. Ion exchange processes typically exchange undesirable ions for more benign ones but may vary in efficiency for hexavalent chromium depending on resin type. Reverse osmosis membranes physically filter out dissolved chromium(VI), generally achieving high reductions of contaminants including chromium-6. Understanding these differences helps in selecting a treatment method tailored to chromium(VI).
Belief: Chromium-6 Derives Only from Industrial Pollution
Hexavalent chromium can originate from various sources. In many arid and alkaline aquifers, geogenic (natural) processes contribute chromium-6 in groundwater. Conversely, industrial sources such as metal plating and manufacturing are recognized contributors to elevated hexavalent chromium levels in some waters. Public water systems like Pierre’s, which use surface water, reflect combined influences but do not specifically indicate individual source contributions without detailed local studies.
Belief: The Median Measurement Defines My Household’s Water Quality
EPA monitoring for Pierre’s public water system showed a median hexavalent chromium detection of 0.032 µg/L among detections, with most samples below the detection threshold. While this data reflects overall system levels over time, a homeowner’s specific water may differ due to localized plumbing conditions and water usage patterns. Individual water testing is needed to determine household-specific chromium(VI) concentrations rather than assuming the median from system-wide data.
Belief: Public Water System Records Fully Define Household Water Quality
Public water system data provide valuable information about the general water quality delivered to communities but do not substitute for private well or household water testing. Variations can occur within distribution networks and private plumbing. Only a direct test of a home's tap water can establish the actual chromium(VI) concentrations present specifically there. Knowing this guides appropriate treatment decisions.
Addressing Chromium-6 at Home
For residents in Hughes County who measure chromium-6 in their water and seek an effective solution, the Fleck Chromium-6 Filter offers a proven method to reduce hexavalent chromium concentrations. This direct-purchase filtration system ships ready to configure and uses a Fleck system technology designed to reduce chromium(VI) to levels consistent with safe use and aesthetic water qualities. Homeowners should test their own water to determine their chromium-6 levels and assess the fit of treatment options accordingly.
Where this information comes from
Source: EPA SDWIS public water system record. Sampled 2015-06-09. These figures describe the public water system's record, not the plumbing inside any individual building.
On record: EPA UCMR3 monitoring (2013-2015) for Pierre (SD4600242), SD: 52 results across 2 listed contaminants, 2 detections above the reporting level; no federal MCL for hexavalent chromium; total chromium MCL 100 ug/L
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