Last updated: April 2026.
🚿 South Dakota Shower Water Quality Report (2026)
Comprehensive analysis of South Dakota water quality across 2 cities • Based on real EWG testing data • Updated 2026
If you live in South Dakota, you may be showering in water that contains contaminants exceeding health guidelines — and you might not even know it. Our analysis of water quality data across 2 South Dakota cities reveals 8 contaminants that may exceed EWG health guidelines.
South Dakota faces unique water quality challenges including agricultural nitrates and naturally occurring uranium. Whether you're in Pierre or elsewhere in the state, understanding what's in your shower water is the first step toward protecting your skin and hair.
📊 South Dakota Water Quality at a Glance
Across South Dakota, we analyzed water quality data from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) database. The results show that South Dakota residents may be exposed to a range of contaminants through their shower water — many at levels that exceed health guidelines set by the EWG, which are often stricter than federal legal limits.
⚠️ Top Contaminants Found in South Dakota Water
Based on EWG data analysis, here are the most significant contaminants detected in South Dakota water supplies:
| Contaminant | Avg. Level | EWG Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arsenic | 3.50 ppb | 0.0040 ppb | ⚠️ 875.0x above |
| Haloacetic acids (HAA9) | 35.18 ppb | 0.0600 ppb | ⚠️ 586.4x above |
| Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) | 40.09 ppb | 0.1500 ppb | ⚠️ 267.3x above |
| Haloacetic acids (HAA5) | 19.52 ppb | 0.1000 ppb | ⚠️ 195.2x above |
| Radium, combined (-226 and -228) | 3.0000 pCi/L | 0.0500 pCi/L | ⚠️ 60.0x above |
| Manganese | 1.25 ppb | 100.00 ppb | ⚠️ 12.5x above |
| Chromium (hexavalent) | 0.0955 ppb | 0.0200 ppb | ⚠️ 4.8x above |
| Nitrate | 0.4800 ppm | 0.1400 ppm | ⚠️ 3.4x above |
Arsenic
The health guideline of 0.004 ppb for arsenic was defined by the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment as a public health goal, the level of a drinking water contaminant that does not pose a significant health risk. This health guideline protects against cancer.
National Average: 0.6242 ppb | South Dakota Average: 3.50 ppb
Haloacetic acids (HAA9)
The health guideline of 0.06 ppb for haloacetic acids (HAA9) was defined by EWG . This health guideline protects against cancer.
National Average: 23.70 ppb | South Dakota Average: 35.18 ppb
Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs)
The health guideline of 0.15 ppb for trihalomethanes was defined by in a peer-reviewed scientific study by EWG and represents a one-in-one-million lifetime cancer risk level. as a draft public health goal, the level of drinking water contaminant that does not pose a significant health risk. This health guideline protects against cancer.
National Average: 29.06 ppb | South Dakota Average: 40.09 ppb
Haloacetic acids (HAA5)
The health guideline of 0.1 ppb for haloacetic acids (HAA5) was established. This health guideline protects against cancer.
National Average: 19.82 ppb | South Dakota Average: 19.52 ppb
🏙️ City-by-City Water Quality in South Dakota
We've analyzed water quality in 2 South Dakota cities. Click on any city to see its detailed water quality report:
| City | Contaminants Found | Above EWG Guidelines |
|---|---|---|
| Sioux Falls | 18 | 7 |
| Pierre | 18 | 5 |
🩺 Health Effects of South Dakota Water Contaminants
The contaminants found in South Dakota water may be associated with various health concerns. When you shower, your skin — your body's largest organ — can absorb these substances, and you may inhale steam containing volatile compounds.
🧴 Skin & Hair
🫁 Respiratory
- Steam inhalation of chlorine/VOCs
- May aggravate asthma symptoms
- Potential respiratory irritation
⚕️ Long-Term Concerns
- Disinfection byproduct exposure
- Eczema flare-ups
- Cumulative contaminant absorption
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself from South Dakota Water Contaminants
The good news: you don't have to accept whatever comes out of your South Dakota showerhead. A quality shower filter can significantly reduce many of the contaminants found in your water.
Key contaminants a shower filter can help address:
- Arsenic — learn about health effects and removal
- Haloacetic acids (HAA9) — learn about health effects and removal
- Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs) — learn about health effects and removal
- Manganese — learn about health effects and removal
Additionally, understanding common symptoms can help you identify water quality issues:
💧 Recommended Shower Filtration for South Dakota
Based on South Dakota's water quality profile, we recommend a multi-stage filtration system. Afina's shower filters use KDF-55 and activated carbon to target chlorine, heavy metals, and other common contaminants found in South Dakota water.
Afina Filtered Showerhead
Multi-stage filter built right into a high-pressure showerhead. No adapters needed.
Shop Now →Afina Shower Filter
Attach between your pipe and any showerhead. KDF-55 + activated carbon filtration.
Shop Now →Replacement Filter
Keep your filtration fresh. Replace every 2-3 months for optimal contaminant removal.
Shop Now →❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Is South Dakota tap water safe to shower in?
While South Dakota tap water meets federal legal standards (MCLs), our analysis found 8 contaminants exceeding stricter EWG health guidelines. Federal limits don't always reflect the latest health research, so many health-conscious residents choose to add shower filtration for an extra layer of protection.
What contaminants are in South Dakota water?
Based on EWG data, South Dakota water contains up to 21 detected contaminants. The most notable include Arsenic, Haloacetic acids (HAA9), Total trihalomethanes (TTHMs). South Dakota faces specific challenges with agricultural nitrates and naturally occurring uranium.
Does South Dakota have hard water?
Yes, South Dakota generally has very hard water. High mineral content including calcium and magnesium can cause buildup on fixtures, dry skin, and hair damage.
Do I need a shower filter in South Dakota?
Given that South Dakota water contains contaminants above EWG health guidelines, a shower filter may help reduce your exposure to chlorine, heavy metals, and disinfection byproducts. This is especially important if you experience dry skin, itchy scalp, or hair issues after showering.
How does South Dakota water compare to the national average?
South Dakota is in the Great Plains region and faces water quality challenges common to the area, including agricultural nitrates and naturally occurring uranium. Some contaminants may be above national averages depending on your specific city and water source.
Data sourced from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) Tap Water Database. This report is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Water quality can vary by neighborhood and season. Last updated: March 2026.
