Well Water in Portage County, Ohio

Portage County · Population ~162,000 · Aquifer: Glacial Drift / Berea Sandstone

Hardness: 200-400 PPM (12-23 gpg) — Hard to Very Hard

Industrial Legacy Contamination

The Kent-Ravenna corridor has a manufacturing history dating back over a century. Historical operations left behind contamination that can affect groundwater:

• Trichloroethylene (TCE) — a common industrial degreaser used in metalworking shops. TCE plumes can persist in groundwater for decades.
• Other VOCs — solvents, degreasers, and fuel components from various industrial and commercial operations
• Petroleum — from leaking underground storage tanks at former gas stations and industrial sites

Ohio EPA has identified and is monitoring several contamination sites in the county. If you're near a known site, test for VOCs. If you're unsure, the Ohio EPA can tell you about known contamination in your area.

Typical Well Water Quality

Outside the industrial contamination areas, Portage County well water has the typical northeastern Ohio profile: hard water with iron. Hardness ranges from 200 to 400 PPM, and iron staining is common.

The Berea Sandstone underlies much of the county and produces reliable yields but often elevated iron and manganese. Glacial drift wells are shallower but more variable in quality.

Testing Priorities

Standard annual testing for bacteria and nitrates applies here. But if you're in the Kent-Ravenna area or near any former industrial or commercial site, add VOC testing to your panel at least once. A basic VOC screen tests for the most common industrial solvents and fuel components.

VOC testing is more expensive than basic panels ($100-$250 for a full scan), but it's worth it for peace of mind if you're in an area with industrial history. The Portage County Health District can provide guidance on local concerns.