A89/100
Montrose Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 49,156 residents · Colorado
What's In Montrose's Tap Water?
76
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.006 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2016.
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
CHIPETA WD
Population Served
3,802
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CO0143176
MENOKEN WD
Population Served
4,500
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CO0143506
MONTROSE CITY OF
Population Served
19,305
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CO0143518
TRI COUNTY WCD
Population Served
20,490
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
CO0143755
DALLAS CREEK WC
Population Served
1,059
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
CO0146485
Frequently Asked Questions About Montrose Water
Is Montrose tap water safe to drink?
Montrose, Colorado tap water receives a grade of A (89/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 77 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 Montrose's water?
Of the 77 contaminants tested in Montrose'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 Montrose have any water quality violations?
Yes, Montrose has 33 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, MR, MON. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Montrose?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Montrose 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 Montrose's tap water come from?
Montrose's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by CHIPETA WD and 4 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 49,156 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Montrose'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. Montrose'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 Montrose's water compare to other cities in Colorado?
Montrose's water quality score of 89/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Montrose among the better-performing water systems in Colorado. Visit our Colorado state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Montrose's water quality?
If you have concerns about Montrose'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 (CHIPETA WD) 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.