D30/100
Des Arc Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 4,245 residents · Arkansas
What's In Des Arc's Tap Water?
51
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to conduct Level 1 Assessment
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: April 1, 2025 – June 25, 2025Rule: 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
DES ARC WATERWORKS
Population Served
4,245
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
AR0000449
Frequently Asked Questions About Des Arc Water
Is Des Arc tap water safe to drink?
Des Arc, Arkansas tap water receives a grade of D (30/100), which is considered poor. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 23 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Des Arc's water?
Of the 51 contaminants tested in Des Arc's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Des Arc have any water quality violations?
Yes, Des Arc has 23 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, MCL, Other. 11 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Des Arc?
Des Arc 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. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Des Arc's tap water come from?
Des Arc's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by DES ARC WATERWORKS. The system serves approximately 4,245 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Des Arc'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. Des Arc'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 Des Arc's water compare to other cities in Arkansas?
Des Arc's water quality score of 30/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Arkansas state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Des Arc's water quality?
If you have concerns about Des Arc'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 (DES ARC WATERWORKS) 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.