TapSafetyReport
A86/100

Dawson Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)

Serving 2,375 residents · Illinois

What's In Dawson's Tap Water?

1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals

EPA Violation History

6

Violations (last 5yr)

0

Unresolved

0

Health-Related

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: January 1, 2025 – March 31, 2025Enforcement: 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, 2024 – September 30, 2024Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved

Surface water treatment technique failure

When: July 1, 2023 – August 7, 2023Enforcement: 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

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

Consumer confidence report — inadequate or unavailable

This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.

When: July 1, 2021 – January 24, 2022Rule: Ground Water 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

DAWSON
Population Served

2,375

Water Source

Groundwater

System ID

IL1670400

Frequently Asked Questions About Dawson Water

Is Dawson tap water safe to drink?

Dawson, Illinois tap water receives a grade of A (86/100), which is considered excellent. 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 Dawson's water?

1 contaminants were tested in Dawson's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.

Does Dawson have any water quality violations?

Yes, Dawson has 14 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, Other. None of these are classified as health-based violations.

Do I need a water filter in Dawson?

Dawson 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 Dawson's tap water come from?

Dawson's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by DAWSON. The system serves approximately 2,375 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.

How often is Dawson'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. Dawson'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 Dawson's water compare to other cities in Illinois?

Dawson's water quality score of 86/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Dawson 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 Dawson's water quality?

If you have concerns about Dawson'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 (DAWSON) 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.

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