F0/100
Pagosa Springs Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 11,069 residents · Colorado
What's In Pagosa Springs's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: June 1, 2021 – August 3, 2021Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to complete routine monitoring
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: June 1, 2021 – June 30, 2021Rule: Surface Water Treatment 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
PAGOSA AREA WSD
Population Served
11,069
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
CO0104300
Frequently Asked Questions About Pagosa Springs Water
Is Pagosa Springs tap water safe to drink?
Pagosa Springs, Colorado tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 130 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Pagosa Springs's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Pagosa Springs'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 Pagosa Springs have any water quality violations?
Yes, Pagosa Springs has 130 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2021. Violation types include RPT, MR, TT. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Pagosa Springs?
Pagosa Springs 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 Pagosa Springs's tap water come from?
Pagosa Springs's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by PAGOSA AREA WSD. The system serves approximately 11,069 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Pagosa Springs'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. Pagosa Springs'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 Pagosa Springs's water compare to other cities in Colorado?
Pagosa Springs'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 Colorado state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Pagosa Springs's water quality?
If you have concerns about Pagosa Springs'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 (PAGOSA AREA WSD) 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.