Sampling Overview: Wells and Data Behind Garrett County Water Quality
The water quality data for Garrett County's aquifer comes from 78 samples collected between September 2010 and October 2023. These samples originate from 10 wells of varying depths, ranging from 125 to 530 feet. Each well provides a snapshot of the groundwater profile in this region, but it is important to understand that these figures represent a regional sampling effort and do not provide specific details about individual household water supplies.
The measured constituent influencing sensitive skin concerns is the combined concentration of calcium and magnesium ions, commonly expressed in milligrams per liter (mg/L). The median concentration from sampled wells is 268.5 mg/L, but the range is broad—from as low as 4.47 mg/L to as high as 1620 mg/L. No federal thresholds are exceeded in these results, which means the values fall within regulatory standards.
Household Symptoms Linked and Not Linked to Water in Garrett County
Many households in Garrett County may notice skin dryness, redness, or irritation and suspect their water. While water mineral content can influence skin condition, these symptoms alone do not confirm water as the cause. The minerals calcium and magnesium, often part of what people call "hard water," can affect how soaps and body cleansers work, potentially leaving residues that aggravate sensitive skin. However, symptoms can also result from other factors such as detergents, environmental conditions, or skin conditions unrelated to water chemistry.
Households suspecting water-related skin sensitivity should consider testing their own water directly for calcium and magnesium concentrations and other parameters to understand their water's specific profile. General regional data can provide context but cannot replace an individual test.
Additional Concerns for Commercial and Industrial Water Users
Commercial and industrial operators in Garrett County concerned about water factors impacting sensitive skin or related product quality will need a more detailed water analysis including parameters not covered in household-level sampling. This might include comprehensive mineral profiles, pH levels, and the presence of other dissolved solids. Such operators often have more complex water treatment needs depending on use cases and regulatory compliance.
Seasonal and Long-Term Variability in Garrett County Groundwater
The groundwater data spans over a decade, from 2010 to 2023, capturing seasonal and multi-year variations. Mineral concentrations can fluctuate due to factors like precipitation, aquifer recharge rates, and local geology. The wide range seen in calcium and magnesium concentrations reflects this natural variability in the sampled wells. Households should be aware that their water quality may vary seasonally or with changes in water source.
Influence of Well Depth and Source Type on Water Characteristics
The sampled wells vary significantly in depth, with some wells relatively shallow at 125 feet and others extending to 530 feet. Generally, deeper wells can have different mineral profiles than shallower ones due to geological differences. Garrett County aquifer groundwater shows variability related to depth, affecting the concentration of calcium and magnesium. The type of source—whether a drilled well or other groundwater access—also influences water composition and should be considered when evaluating water effects on sensitive skin.
Conclusion: Regional Data Scope and Next Steps
The U.S. Geological Survey’s data represent a broad overview of calcium and magnesium concentrations in Garrett County’s aquifer derived from multiple wells sampled over more than a decade. While no federal thresholds are exceeded, the wide concentration range means individual water supplies can differ substantially. Households with sensitive skin concerns should consider testing their own water. For managing skin sensitivity related to water mineral content, the C-Series Sensitive Skin & Eczema System ships ready to configure and has a documented capacity of 32,000 grains, offering an option tailored to address this issue effectively.
For detailed regional groundwater data, please refer to the U.S. Geological Survey monitoring location 391448079254666.
Where this information comes from
Source: USGS groundwater sampling. Sampled 2023-10-24. These figures describe groundwater sampled in this area. They are not a test of any individual private well - only a test of that well can establish its own water.
On record: U.S. Geological Survey sampling of Hardness, Ca, Mg in the aquifer (Garrett County): 78 results from 10 wells, median 268.5 mg/L, range 4.47-1620.0 mg/L; none above any federal threshold