F12/100
Gardner Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 21,287 residents · Massachusetts
What's In Gardner's Tap Water?
70
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 2.02 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 253.56 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Failed treatment technique requirements
When: January 1, 2022 – January 31, 2022Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: 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
GARDNER WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
21,287
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
MA2103000
Frequently Asked Questions About Gardner Water
Is Gardner tap water safe to drink?
Gardner, Massachusetts tap water receives a grade of F (12/100), which is considered failing. 1 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 Gardner's water?
Of the 70 contaminants tested in Gardner's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Gardner have any water quality violations?
Yes, Gardner has 46 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include TT, Other, MR. 7 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Gardner?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Gardner 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 Gardner's tap water come from?
Gardner's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by GARDNER WATER DEPARTMENT. The system serves approximately 21,287 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Gardner'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. Gardner'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 Gardner's water compare to other cities in Massachusetts?
Gardner's water quality score of 12/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Massachusetts state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Gardner's water quality?
If you have concerns about Gardner'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 (GARDNER 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.