F0/100

Seward Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)

Serving 3,324 residents · Alaska

What's In Seward's Tap Water?

51
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals

EPA Violation History

3

Violations (last 5yr)

2

Unresolved

1

Health-Related

TIER 3Unresolved

Reporting violation

This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.

When: October 17, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 2Unresolved

Treatment technique violation

When: October 17, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Resolved

Surface water treatment technique failure

When: July 1, 2021 – August 24, 2021Enforcement: 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

SEWARD
Population Served

3,324

Water Source

Groundwater

System ID

AK2240757

Frequently Asked Questions About Seward Water

Is Seward tap water safe to drink?

Seward, Alaska tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 280 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.

What contaminants are in Seward's water?

51 contaminants were tested in Seward's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.

Does Seward have any water quality violations?

Yes, Seward has 280 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include RPT, TT, Other. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.

Do I need a water filter in Seward?

Seward water meets EPA standards, so a filter is not strictly necessary. However, some residents prefer the added security of a water filter. EPA health goals (MCLGs) are stricter than legal limits and are set at levels with zero expected health risk. All contaminants are within health goals.

Where does Seward's tap water come from?

Seward's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by SEWARD. The system serves approximately 3,324 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.

How often is Seward'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. Seward'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 Seward's water compare to other cities in Alaska?

Seward'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 Seward's water quality?

If you have concerns about Seward'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 (SEWARD) 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.

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