Hernando Water Hardness & Quality Report (2026)

The City of Hernando Water Company supplies drinking water to about 13,981 residents in Hernando, Mississippi, within DeSoto County. This utility operates from its West Commerce Street location and can be reached at 662-429-9092. All of its water comes from groundwater wells, which have been identified as having moderate susceptibility to contamination according to the company's annual reports. Treatment primarily involves disinfection with hypochlorite, and routine monitoring confirms adherence to EPA standards. While specific treatment plant names aren't provided, the Hernando groundwater originates in the Mississippi Embayment aquifer system, influenced by the region's alluvial plains and Mississippi River tributaries.

The groundwater is drawn from unconsolidated sands, clays, and limestones dating back to the Tertiary periods. These geological layers, particularly the limestone formations, contribute dissolved minerals to the water as it percolates through. Clay interbeds also play a role by moderating the infiltration process. This geological makeup results in a moderately mineralized water supply, characteristic of the aquifer system in this part of Mississippi.

With moderately hard water, you'll likely notice scale buildup on fixtures, which can decrease the efficiency of appliances like dishwashers and water heaters by 20-30% over time. Faucet aerators and showerheads might require cleaning every year or two. To keep your appliances running well and extend their lifespan, regular descaling with vinegar or installing a whole-house water softener is a good idea. For homeowners, a softener can also help with issues like spotting on glassware or dry skin, though it's not strictly necessary if those aren't concerns. Recent consumer confidence reports show no violations of EPA Maximum Contaminant Levels, though some advocacy groups have noted exceedances for certain contaminants like chromium and barium.