C54/100
Boone Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 12,704 residents · Iowa
What's In Boone's Tap Water?
70
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.60 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Failed treatment technique requirements
When: August 1, 2022 – August 31, 2022Rule: Surface Water Treatment 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
BOONE WATER WORKS
Population Served
12,704
Water Source
Groundwater Under Influence of Surface Water
System ID
IA0819033
Frequently Asked Questions About Boone Water
Is Boone tap water safe to drink?
Boone, Iowa tap water receives a grade of C (54/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 23 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Boone's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Boone's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Boone have any water quality violations?
Yes, Boone has 23 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include TT, MR. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Boone?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Boone 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 Boone's tap water come from?
Boone's drinking water is sourced from groundwater under influence of surface water and supplied by BOONE WATER WORKS. The system serves approximately 12,704 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Boone'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. Boone'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 Boone's water compare to other cities in Iowa?
Boone's water quality score of 54/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Iowa state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Boone's water quality?
If you have concerns about Boone'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 (BOONE WATER WORKS) 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.