A80/100
Baldwin City Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 7,882 residents · Kansas
What's In Baldwin City'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
1
Violation (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
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
DOUGLAS CO RWD 4
Population Served
3,000
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
KS2004509
BALDWIN CITY, CITY OF
Population Served
4,882
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
KS2004510
Frequently Asked Questions About Baldwin City Water
Is Baldwin City tap water safe to drink?
Baldwin City, Kansas tap water receives a grade of A (80/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 31 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 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 Baldwin City's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Baldwin City'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 Baldwin City have any water quality violations?
Yes, Baldwin City has 24 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include RPT, MR, Other. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Baldwin City?
Baldwin City 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 Baldwin City's tap water come from?
Baldwin City's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by DOUGLAS CO RWD 4 and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 7,882 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Baldwin City'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. Baldwin City'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 Baldwin City's water compare to other cities in Kansas?
Baldwin City's water quality score of 80/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Baldwin City among the better-performing water systems in Kansas. Visit our Kansas state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Baldwin City's water quality?
If you have concerns about Baldwin City'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 (DOUGLAS CO RWD 4) 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.