Chromium-6 in Watertown, SD Drinking Water
Chromium-6 data for Watertown, South Dakota · 27,242 residents · 1 ZIP code
EPA records show Chromium-6 detections in Watertown, South Dakota water samples.
Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14
Chromium-6 in Watertown Tap Water
Chromium-6 has been detected in Watertown, South Dakota drinking water at a maximum level of 960 ppb — 9.6x the EPA MCL.
This analysis covers 27,242 residents across 1 ZIP code in Watertown.
Watertown's overall water quality grade is C (55/100).
Is Chromium-6 in Watertown Water Safe?
If you live in an affected ZIP code, consider installing a reverse osmosis or strong-base anion exchange filter certified under NSF 58 and testing your water independently.
Chromium-6 Levels by ZIP Code
| ZIP Code | Chromium-6 Level | EPA Limit | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| 57201 | 960 ppb | 100 ppb (total chromium MCL) | Exceeds limit |
Average chromium-6 level across Watertown: 960 ppb
Health Effects of Chromium-6
- Stomach and intestinal cancer (likely carcinogen via ingestion)
- Known carcinogen when inhaled
- Liver and kidney damage
- Reproductive and developmental harm
Health risk severity: High. Governed by the National Primary Drinking Water Regulations.
How Chromium-6 Gets Into Drinking Water
- Industrial discharge from steel and pulp mills
- Natural erosion of chromium deposits
- Coal ash disposal sites
- Cooling tower discharge
What to Do About Chromium-6 in Watertown Water
- Reverse osmosis systems are most effective
- Strong-base anion exchange can reduce chromium-6
- Standard carbon filters are NOT effective for chromium-6
- Look for NSF 58 certification
Look for filters certified under NSF 58 for chromium-6 removal.