C52/100
Galena Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 5,602 residents · Illinois
What's In Galena's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
5
Violations (last 5yr)
5
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: August 22, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
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 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 2Unresolved
Treatment technique violation
When: October 17, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
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
GALENA
Population Served
3,308
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
IL0850200
PRAIRIE PATH WATER COMPANY-GALENA
Population Served
2,294
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
IL0855050
Frequently Asked Questions About Galena Water
Is Galena tap water safe to drink?
Galena, Illinois tap water receives a grade of C (52/100), which is considered fair. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 46 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Galena's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Galena's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Galena have any water quality violations?
Yes, Galena has 46 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, MR, TT. 11 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Galena?
Galena 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. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Galena's tap water come from?
Galena's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by GALENA and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 5,602 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Galena'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. Galena'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 Galena's water compare to other cities in Illinois?
Galena's water quality score of 52/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Illinois state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Galena's water quality?
If you have concerns about Galena'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 (GALENA) 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.