Sherwood Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

Sherwood, Arkansas is served by Central Arkansas Water (CAW), a major regional utility providing potable water to communities across central Arkansas. CAW operates multiple water sources including surface water from the Arkansas River system and groundwater supplies. The utility maintains a Water Quality department dedicated to ensuring all delivered water meets federal and state regulatory standards. Service areas span multiple counties in the central region.

The Sherwood water supply originates from the White River basin and Arkansas River watershed, with geology dominated by Quaternary alluvial deposits and underlying Paleozoic rock formations. The region's hydrogeology produces a soft water supply, reflecting relatively low concentrations of dissolved calcium and magnesium due to minimal limestone dissolution. This soft character is consistent with Arkansas's statewide average water profile and results from the geological composition of the aquifers and surface water sources feeding the system.

At soft hardness levels, Sherwood residents experience minimal scaling in appliances and plumbing. Water heaters, dishwashers, and washing machines operate efficiently without significant mineral buildup, and soap and detergents lather readily, reducing cleaning product consumption. A water softener is not necessary for hardness management. However, CAW's 2024 Consumer Confidence Report notes contaminants above EPA health-based guidelines, including bromodichloromethane (5.5 PPB), E. coli (1 P/A), and dichloroacetic acid (0.012 PPM); the utility recommends NSF-certified filtration for additional protection. Lead and copper rule compliance is maintained with ongoing monitoring across the service area.