A89/100
Cerro Gordo Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,433 residents · Illinois
What's In Cerro Gordo's Tap Water?
2
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.87 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2024 – July 16, 2024Enforcement: 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
CERRO GORDO
Population Served
1,433
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
IL1470100
Frequently Asked Questions About Cerro Gordo Water
Is Cerro Gordo tap water safe to drink?
Cerro Gordo, Illinois tap water receives a grade of A (89/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 2 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 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 Cerro Gordo's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in Cerro Gordo's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Cerro Gordo have any water quality violations?
Yes, Cerro Gordo has 3 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include Other, MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Cerro Gordo?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Cerro Gordo 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 Cerro Gordo's tap water come from?
Cerro Gordo's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by CERRO GORDO. The system serves approximately 1,433 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Cerro Gordo'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. Cerro Gordo'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 Cerro Gordo's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
Cerro Gordo's water quality score of 89/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Cerro Gordo among the better-performing water systems in Illinois. Visit our Illinois state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Cerro Gordo's water quality?
If you have concerns about Cerro Gordo'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 (CERRO GORDO) 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.