D38/100
Silverthorne Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 11,064 residents · Colorado
What's In Silverthorne's Tap Water?
32
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.50 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2025 – July 15, 2025Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: 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
BUFFALO MOUNTAIN MD
Population Served
2,650
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CO0159025
SILVERTHORNE TOWN OF
Population Served
8,414
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
CO0159095
Frequently Asked Questions About Silverthorne Water
Is Silverthorne tap water safe to drink?
Silverthorne, Colorado tap water receives a grade of D (38/100), which is considered poor. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 143 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Silverthorne's water?
Of the 32 contaminants tested in Silverthorne'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 Silverthorne have any water quality violations?
Yes, Silverthorne has 143 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, MR, MON. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Silverthorne?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Silverthorne 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 Silverthorne's tap water come from?
Silverthorne's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by BUFFALO MOUNTAIN MD and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 11,064 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Silverthorne'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. Silverthorne'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 Silverthorne's water compare to other cities in Colorado?
Silverthorne's water quality score of 38/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. 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 Silverthorne's water quality?
If you have concerns about Silverthorne'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 (BUFFALO MOUNTAIN MD) 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.