A93/100
Baxter Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,002 residents · Iowa
What's In Baxter'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 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: August 1, 2023 – August 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: August 1, 2023 – August 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: June 20, 2023Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: February 1, 2023 – February 28, 2023Rule: Total Coliform 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
BAXTER WATER SUPPLY
Population Served
1,002
Water Source
Purchased Groundwater
System ID
IA5003091
Frequently Asked Questions About Baxter Water
Is Baxter tap water safe to drink?
Baxter, Iowa tap water receives a grade of A (93/100), 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 Baxter's water?
1 contaminants were tested in Baxter's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Baxter have any water quality violations?
Yes, Baxter has 7 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, Other, MON. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Baxter?
Baxter 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 Baxter's tap water come from?
Baxter's drinking water is sourced from purchased groundwater and supplied by BAXTER WATER SUPPLY. The system serves approximately 1,002 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Baxter'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. Baxter'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 Baxter's water compare to other cities in Iowa?
Baxter's water quality score of 93/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Baxter among the better-performing water systems in Iowa. Visit our Iowa state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Baxter's water quality?
If you have concerns about Baxter'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 (BAXTER WATER SUPPLY) 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.