Written by For months, the residents of Marion have been told the same five words by Aqua Ohio: “The water is safe to drink.”. However, a newly analyzed laboratory report from January 12, 2026 conducted by Pure H2O, tells a far more complex and troubling story. While the utility remains technically within the legal bounds of the EPA, the “fix” implemented to resolve December’s taste and odor crisis has introduced a new set of system stressors that some say threaten local infrastructure and public health.
The “Undetectable” Myth vs. Chemical Reality
In mid-December, Aqua Ohio spokesperson Jeff LaRue claimed that Geosmin—the organic compound responsible for the foul, earthy smell—was “undetectable leaving our treatment plant”. He attributed lingering odors to the compound slowly working its way out of the distribution lines.
The January lab results prove this is only half the story. While the organic odor has indeed dissipated, the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) in our water were measured at 374~mg/L.
- The Disconnect: Independent health standards indicate that most people notice a distinct chemical taste and “dryness” on the skin once TDS exceeds 300~mg/L.
- The Truth: Aqua is technically “compliant” (the EPA limit is 500~mg/L), but the water remains far from “ideal” or even palatable for the average citizen.
The Corrosion Gambit: Aqua’s Treatment Shift
To combat the December crisis, Aqua adjusted its source mix to rely more heavily on groundwater and wells. The January report reveals the hidden cost of this shift:
- High pH (8.72): This level is significantly more alkaline than the recommended range of 6.5 to 8.5.
- The Risk: High pH reduces the effectiveness of chlorine, forcing the plant to add more chemicals to maintain safety. More importantly, it acts as a system stressor that can accelerate the leaching of lead and copper from your home’s plumbing.
- Detected Lead: Lead was found in the January sample at 0.0006~mg/L. While below the legal “action level,” experts warn there is no safe level of lead exposure, especially for the children of Marion.
The Hidden Economic Burden
Aqua continues to insist there is “no need for boiling or any other precautionary measures”. Yet, the lab data shows our water is moderately hard (81.1~mg/L) and contains noticeable sodium (70.8~mg/L).
- Appliance Wear: This mineral cocktail shortens the life of water heaters and dishwashers, essentially serving as a “hidden tax” on every household.
- Medical Relevance: The high sodium content is a critical concern for residents on low-sodium diets or those with blood pressure issues—a fact rarely mentioned in Aqua’s public reassurances.
The Verdict
Aqua Ohio’s defense rests on a narrow definition of “safety” that prioritizes EPA benchmarks over the actual quality of life in Marion. The “compliance” they tout in the media is a shield, not a standard of excellence. As they move forward with proposed rate increases, the question remains: Why should Marion residents pay more for water that is technically legal but practically a “system stressor”?.
This video captures the community’s outcry during the peak of the odor crisis and provides the context of Aqua’s initial “safe to drink” response.
