B79/100
Tama Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 26,305 residents · Iowa
What's In Tama's Tap Water?
73
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | < 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2002.
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
SAC & FOX (MESKWAKI) IN IOWA
Population Served
4,765
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
070000003
POWESHIEK WATER ASSOCIATION (IAC)
Population Served
2,490
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
IA4868701
POWESHIEK WATER ASSOCIATION (CR)
Population Served
2,000
Water Source
GUP
System ID
IA5715702
TAMA WATER SUPPLY
Population Served
3,130
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
IA8670013
POWESHIEK WATER ASSOCIATION
Population Served
13,920
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
IA8670701
Frequently Asked Questions About Tama Water
Is Tama tap water safe to drink?
Tama, Iowa tap water receives a grade of B (79/100), which is considered good. Out of 74 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 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 Tama's water?
Of the 74 contaminants tested in Tama'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 Tama have any water quality violations?
Yes, Tama has 51 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2020. Violation types include MR, MCL. 8 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Tama?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Tama 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 Tama's tap water come from?
Tama's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by SAC & FOX (MESKWAKI) IN IOWA and 4 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 26,305 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Tama'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. Tama'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 Tama's water compare to other cities in Iowa?
Tama's water quality score of 79/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Iowa state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Tama's water quality?
If you have concerns about Tama'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 (SAC & FOX (MESKWAKI) IN IOWA) 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.