F0/100
Carthage Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 2,510 residents · Illinois
What's In Carthage's Tap Water?
1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
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.
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, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: 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, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2022 – September 30, 2022Enforcement: 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
CARTHAGE
Population Served
2,510
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
IL0670250
Frequently Asked Questions About Carthage Water
Is Carthage tap water safe to drink?
Carthage, Illinois tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 60 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Carthage's water?
1 contaminants were tested in Carthage's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Carthage have any water quality violations?
Yes, Carthage has 60 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, MCL, Other. 18 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Carthage?
Carthage 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 Carthage's tap water come from?
Carthage's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by CARTHAGE. The system serves approximately 2,510 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Carthage'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. Carthage'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 Carthage's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
Carthage'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 Illinois state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Carthage's water quality?
If you have concerns about Carthage'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 (CARTHAGE) 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.