D32/100
Patuxent River Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 22,000 residents · Maryland
What's In Patuxent River's Tap Water?
66
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 228.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
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: June 1, 2023 – August 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
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, 2022 – January 11, 2023Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2022 – December 31, 2022Enforcement: 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
PATUXENT NAVAL AIR STATION (NAVFAC-WASH)
Population Served
22,000
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MD0180022
Frequently Asked Questions About Patuxent River Water
Is Patuxent River tap water safe to drink?
Patuxent River, Maryland tap water receives a grade of D (32/100), which is considered poor. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 57 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Patuxent River's water?
Of the 66 contaminants tested in Patuxent River's water supply, the most notable include chlorate. 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 Patuxent River have any water quality violations?
Yes, Patuxent River has 57 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, MCL. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Patuxent River?
Patuxent River 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 Patuxent River's tap water come from?
Patuxent River's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by PATUXENT NAVAL AIR STATION (NAVFAC-WASH). The system serves approximately 22,000 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Patuxent River'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. Patuxent River'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 Patuxent River's water compare to other cities in Maryland?
Patuxent River's water quality score of 32/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Maryland state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Patuxent River's water quality?
If you have concerns about Patuxent River'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 (PATUXENT NAVAL AIR STATION (NAVFAC-WASH)) 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.