F15/100
Cotton Valley Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,380 residents · Louisiana
What's In Cotton Valley's Tap Water?
1
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
3
Violations (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to issue ongoing public notification
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 1, 2023 – February 4, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2021 – February 8, 2022Enforcement: Formal — state order issued
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
COTTON VALLEY WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
1,380
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
LA1119004
Frequently Asked Questions About Cotton Valley Water
Is Cotton Valley tap water safe to drink?
Cotton Valley, Louisiana tap water receives a grade of F (15/100), which is considered failing. 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 Cotton Valley's water?
Of the 1 contaminants tested in Cotton Valley'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 Cotton Valley have any water quality violations?
Yes, Cotton Valley has 46 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include Other, MR, TT. 9 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Cotton Valley?
Cotton Valley 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 Cotton Valley's tap water come from?
Cotton Valley's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by COTTON VALLEY WATER SYSTEM. The system serves approximately 1,380 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Cotton Valley'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. Cotton Valley'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 Cotton Valley's water compare to other cities in Louisiana?
Cotton Valley's water quality score of 15/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Louisiana state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Cotton Valley's water quality?
If you have concerns about Cotton Valley'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 (COTTON VALLEY WATER SYSTEM) 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.