F9/100
Rockland Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 33,647 residents · Massachusetts
What's In Rockland's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
2
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.012 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
PFOS | 0.007 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.004 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 1 — URGENTResolved
Maximum Contaminant Level Violation
When: May 1, 2025 – May 31, 2025Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Unresolved
Exceeded the MCL for disinfection byproducts
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
ABINGTON/ROCKLAND JOINT WTR. WORKS
Population Served
33,647
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
MA4001000
Frequently Asked Questions About Rockland Water
Is Rockland tap water safe to drink?
Rockland, Massachusetts tap water receives a grade of F (9/100), which is considered failing. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 16 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Rockland's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Rockland's water supply, the most notable include PFOA, PFOS, Lead (90th percentile). 2 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 Rockland have any water quality violations?
Yes, Rockland has 16 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MCL, MR, TT. 14 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Rockland?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Rockland is recommended. 2 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 Rockland's tap water come from?
Rockland's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by ABINGTON/ROCKLAND JOINT WTR. WORKS. The system serves approximately 33,647 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Rockland'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. Rockland'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 Rockland's water compare to other cities in Massachusetts?
Rockland's water quality score of 9/100 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 Rockland's water quality?
If you have concerns about Rockland'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 (ABINGTON/ROCKLAND JOINT WTR. WORKS) 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.