B69/100
Ward Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 12,579 residents · Arkansas
What's In Ward's Tap Water?
32
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 2.53 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
3
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Violation related to Nitrite
When: July 1, 2025Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 2Resolved
Violation related to Nitrite
When: June 1, 2025Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 2Resolved
Violation related to Nitrite
When: May 1, 2025Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2021 – October 25, 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
WARD WATERWORKS
Population Served
12,579
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
AR0000345
Frequently Asked Questions About Ward Water
Is Ward tap water safe to drink?
Ward, Arkansas tap water receives a grade of B (69/100), which is considered good. Out of 32 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Ward's water?
Of the 32 contaminants tested in Ward'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 Ward have any water quality violations?
Yes, Ward has 8 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include TT, Other, MR. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Ward?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Ward 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 Ward's tap water come from?
Ward's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by WARD WATERWORKS. The system serves approximately 12,579 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Ward'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. Ward'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 Ward's water compare to other cities in Arkansas?
Ward's water quality score of 69/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Arkansas state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Ward's water quality?
If you have concerns about Ward'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 (WARD 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.