F13/100
Buena Vista Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 5,476 residents · Colorado
What's In Buena Vista'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) | 1.50 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2009.
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
BUENA VISTA TOWN OF
Population Served
3,776
Water Source
Groundwater Under Influence of Surface Water
System ID
CO0108300
BUENA VISTA CORRECTIONAL FACILITY
Population Served
1,700
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CO0108350
Frequently Asked Questions About Buena Vista Water
Is Buena Vista tap water safe to drink?
Buena Vista, Colorado tap water receives a grade of F (13/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 163 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Buena Vista's water?
Of the 32 contaminants tested in Buena Vista'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 Buena Vista have any water quality violations?
Yes, Buena Vista has 163 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, RPT, MON. 7 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Buena Vista?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Buena Vista 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 Buena Vista's tap water come from?
Buena Vista's drinking water is sourced from groundwater under influence of surface water and supplied by BUENA VISTA TOWN OF and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 5,476 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Buena Vista'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. Buena Vista'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 Buena Vista's water compare to other cities in Colorado?
Buena Vista's water quality score of 13/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Colorado state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Buena Vista's water quality?
If you have concerns about Buena Vista'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 (BUENA VISTA TOWN OF) 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.