B74/100
Buncombe Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 2,365 residents · Illinois
What's In Buncombe's Tap Water?
1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
5
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
5
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: July 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 2Resolved
Treatment Technique Violation
When: July 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: April 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 2Resolved
Treatment Technique Violation
When: April 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: January 1, 2024 – March 31, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Formal — state order issued
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
LICK CREEK PWD
Population Served
2,365
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
IL1815100
Frequently Asked Questions About Buncombe Water
Is Buncombe tap water safe to drink?
Buncombe, Illinois tap water receives a grade of B (74/100), which is considered good. Out of 1 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Buncombe's water?
1 contaminants were tested in Buncombe's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Buncombe have any water quality violations?
Yes, Buncombe has 6 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MCL, TT, MR. 5 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Buncombe?
Buncombe 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. All contaminants are within health goals.
Where does Buncombe's tap water come from?
Buncombe's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by LICK CREEK PWD. The system serves approximately 2,365 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Buncombe'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. Buncombe'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 Buncombe's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
Buncombe's water quality score of 74/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Illinois state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Buncombe's water quality?
If you have concerns about Buncombe'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 (LICK CREEK PWD) 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.