F0/100
Barrow Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 4,900 residents · Alaska
What's In Barrow's Tap Water?
38
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOS | 0.046 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFHxS | 0.017 µg/L | 0.010 µg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
5
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Failed treatment technique requirements
When: October 1, 2024 – October 31, 2024Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Missed required monitoring deadline
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: September 1, 2023 – September 30, 2023Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to complete routine monitoring
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: September 1, 2023 – September 30, 2023Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: March 1, 2023 – March 31, 2023Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2023 – March 31, 2023Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
Understanding violation severity
Tier 1Urgent health risk. Utility must notify all customers within 24 hours.Tier 2Important health or treatment issue. Customers notified within 30 days.Tier 3Administrative or monitoring issue. Reported in the annual water quality report.
Source: EPA Safe Drinking Water Information System (SDWIS) · Updated quarterly
Water Utility Details
BARROW UTILITIES & ELEC. COOP., INC. (BU
Population Served
4,900
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
AK2320078
Frequently Asked Questions About Barrow Water
Is Barrow tap water safe to drink?
Barrow, Alaska tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 72 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Barrow's water?
Of the 38 contaminants tested in Barrow's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, PFHxS. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Barrow have any water quality violations?
Yes, Barrow has 72 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include TT, MR, MON. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Barrow?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Barrow is recommended. 2 contaminant(s) exceed legal limits. An NSF-certified filter — such as a reverse osmosis or activated carbon system — can effectively reduce many common contaminants. Choose a filter certified to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Where does Barrow's tap water come from?
Barrow's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by BARROW UTILITIES & ELEC. COOP., INC. (BU. The system serves approximately 4,900 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Barrow's water tested?
Under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), water utilities are required to regularly test for over 90 contaminants. Testing frequency varies by contaminant — some are tested monthly, others quarterly or annually. Barrow's water systems must report results to the EPA and publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR). The data on this page reflects the latest available EPA testing data.
How does Barrow's water compare to other cities in Alaska?
Barrow's water quality score of 0/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Alaska state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Barrow's water quality?
If you have concerns about Barrow's tap water, consider these steps: (1) Request your utility's annual Consumer Confidence Report for detailed local data. (2) Get your water independently tested through a state-certified laboratory. (3) Consider an NSF-certified water filter rated for the contaminants found in your area. (4) Contact your water utility (BARROW UTILITIES & ELEC. COOP., INC. (BU) with specific questions. (5) Report water quality issues to your state drinking water program or the EPA Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.