F1/100
Big Lake Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,166 residents · Alaska
What's In Big Lake's Tap Water?
2
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 2.44 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | < 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Violation related to Consumer Confidence Report
When: May 1, 2022 – May 25, 2022Rule: Consumer Confidence RuleEnforcement: 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
COUNTRY FIELD WATER CO.
Population Served
1,166
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AK2220029
Frequently Asked Questions About Big Lake Water
Is Big Lake tap water safe to drink?
Big Lake, Alaska tap water receives a grade of F (1/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 84 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Big Lake's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in Big Lake's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile). 1 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 Big Lake have any water quality violations?
Yes, Big Lake has 84 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include TT, MR. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Big Lake?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Big Lake is recommended. 1 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 Big Lake's tap water come from?
Big Lake's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by COUNTRY FIELD WATER CO.. The system serves approximately 1,166 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Big Lake'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. Big Lake'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 Big Lake's water compare to other cities in Alaska?
Big Lake's water quality score of 1/100 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 Big Lake's water quality?
If you have concerns about Big Lake'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 (COUNTRY FIELD WATER CO.) 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.