Millville, a small borough in northwest Columbia County, represents a classic Pennsylvania rural community where geological conditions create elevated radon risk. Located along Fishing Creek, this historic area sits atop complex sedimentary bedrock formations that harbor naturally occurring uranium-bearing minerals - the primary source of radon gas in residential properties.
The area's geological story reveals why it produces radon-222, an odorless radioactive gas that migrates upward through fractured bedrock and porous soil layers.
Millville's location in the Fishing Creek watershed creates additional radon risk factors. The watershed's topography channels groundwater movement, which can enhance radon transport through subsurface pathways. Historical coal mining operations in surrounding areas fractured bedrock layers, creating additional migration routes that allow radon to travel more freely from deep uranium sources toward home foundations.
The combination of uranium-rich sedimentary geology, watershed hydrology, and regional mining disruption places Millville firmly in EPA Zone 1 - the highest radon risk classification. Professional making certified mitigation systems a common necessity for protecting Columbia County families.
Sub-slab depressurization systems work effectively in Millville's varied foundation types, creating negative pressure beneath homes to prevent radon gas from entering living spaces.