B65/100
Battle Creek Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 50,441 residents · Michigan
What's In Battle Creek's Tap Water?
67
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.37 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
8
Violations (last 5yr)
6
Unresolved
6
Health-Related
TIER 2Unresolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: July 1, 2025 – September 30, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 2Unresolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: July 1, 2025 – September 30, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: June 30, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: June 30, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 2Unresolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: April 1, 2025 – June 30, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 2Unresolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: April 1, 2025 – June 30, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 2Unresolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: January 1, 2025 – March 31, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 2Unresolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: January 1, 2025 – March 31, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
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
BATTLE CREEK - VERONA SYSTEM
Population Served
43,975
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MI0000450
EMMETT TOWNSHIP
Population Served
2,550
Water Source
Purchased Groundwater
System ID
MI0002125
PENNFIELD TOWNSHIP
Population Served
3,916
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MI0004760
Frequently Asked Questions About Battle Creek Water
Is Battle Creek tap water safe to drink?
Battle Creek, Michigan tap water receives a grade of B (65/100), which is considered good. Out of 67 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 exceed health guidelines (MCLGs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Battle Creek's water?
Of the 67 contaminants tested in Battle Creek's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Battle Creek have any water quality violations?
Yes, Battle Creek has 47 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MCL, Other, MR. 11 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Battle Creek?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Battle Creek 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 Battle Creek's tap water come from?
Battle Creek's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by BATTLE CREEK - VERONA SYSTEM and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 50,441 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Battle Creek'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. Battle Creek'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 Battle Creek's water compare to other cities in Michigan?
Battle Creek's water quality score of 65/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Michigan state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Battle Creek's water quality?
If you have concerns about Battle Creek'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 (BATTLE CREEK - VERONA 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.