South Dakota is a national hotspot for radon exposure. The levels of radon present in houses across the state are higher than they are almost anywhere else in the country. Despite this fact, however, the amount of radon testing done in South Dakota homes is lagging dangerously behind both neighboring states and others with a similarly elevated risk profile.
Is the risk of radon exposure higher in certain parts of the state? Should those who live in specific South Dakota cities or regions be more vigilant about radon testing than others?
In order to get an answer, we need to first look at the data. We’ll look at how the geology of our state has created uniquely dangerous conditions for residents, explore the data about radon testing rates in South Dakota, and help you get a sense of whether or not your area is at risk.
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Radon Testing For Homeowners In South Dakota
You might wonder why a state with such open spaces and fresh air has such a problem with indoor air quality. The answer lies underground. South Dakota’s high radon levels are primarily due to the geological makeup of our soil and bedrock.
Radon is a byproduct of the natural decay of uranium (specifically Uranium-238) found in soil and rock. In South Dakota, we have a perfect storm of geological features:
- Uranium-Rich Soil In South Dakota: Much of our state, including rural areas, features soil with rocks that naturally contain high concentrations of uranium, such as granite and black shale. As this uranium decays, it releases radon gas.
- Glacial Deposits Containing Uranium. In eastern South Dakota, glacial deposits derived from uranium-rich rocks are a significant source of radon.
- Soil Characteristics. The presence of uranium by itself isn’t necessarily enough to cause high levels of radon. The real danger comes from the fact that the gas produced by uranium-rich rocks and glacial deposits can move very easily through the types of soil found in South Dakota. This soil acts like a highway for radon to travel up from the ground and into the foundations of our homes.
The climate in South Dakota adds another level of risk. During our long, cold winters, we keep our homes sealed tight. This creates a “stack effect,” where warm air rising inside the house actively draws radon gas up from the soil through cracks in the foundation, trapping it indoors.
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Despite Risks, South Dakota Radon Testing Rates Are Low
The American Lung Association released a report that highlights a concerning trend. According to their data, South Dakota ranks #1 in the nation for “Radon Testing Disparity.” This metric essentially means that while we have some of the highest radon levels in the country, our testing rates are disproportionately low compared to the risk.
- Extreme Exposure: The estimated mean radon level in South Dakota homes is 8.5 pCi/L. To put that in perspective, the EPA’s action level—the point where you are strongly advised to fix your home—is 4.0 pCi/L. We are averaging more than double the danger limit.
- Lagging Awareness: Despite this, we only see about 15.6 radon tests per 1,000 housing units. Compare this to Pennsylvania, another high-radon state (average 7.3 pCi/L), which tests at a rate of 35.4 per 1,000 homes, or Iowa (average 7.1 pCi/L), which tests at a massive 67.1 per 1,000 homes.
We are living in one of the most radioactive residential environments in the country, yet we are testing half as often as our peers.
Get A Definitive Answer About Radon Levels In Your Home
The bottom line is simple: if you live in South Dakota, you need to test your home for radon. If you look at maps of radon levels in the state, certain regions seem to be more at risk than others, but these maps are created using data from radon tests – and remember, South Dakota radon testing rates are much lower than they should be.
Radon Crew offers affordable, accurate, and comprehensive radon testing to homeowners.
In the event that you discover your home has dangerous levels of radon, Radon Crew will work with you to develop, build, and install a radon mitigation system.
PROTECT YOUR HEALTH, PRESERVE YOUR HOME
Radon testing and mitigation is more affordable than you think.