F0/100
Saco Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 2,470 residents · Maine
What's In Saco's Tap Water?
1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Violation related to Nitrite
When: October 4, 2022 – October 7, 2022Rule: Stage 1 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: October 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022Rule: 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: October 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2022 – August 28, 2024Enforcement: 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
BERWICK WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
2,470
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
ME0090150
Frequently Asked Questions About Saco Water
Is Saco tap water safe to drink?
Saco, Maine tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 55 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Saco's water?
1 contaminants were tested in Saco's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Saco have any water quality violations?
Yes, Saco has 55 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include TT, MR, Other. 22 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Saco?
Saco 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 Saco's tap water come from?
Saco's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by BERWICK WATER DEPARTMENT. The system serves approximately 2,470 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Saco'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. Saco'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 Saco's water compare to other cities in Maine?
Saco's water quality score of 0/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Maine state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Saco's water quality?
If you have concerns about Saco'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 (BERWICK WATER DEPARTMENT) 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.