B76/100
Harbor Springs Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 3,523 residents · Michigan
What's In Harbor Springs's Tap Water?
1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2019.
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
BIRCHWOOD FARMS
Population Served
1,227
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MI0000725
HARBOR SPRINGS, CITY OF
Population Served
1,194
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MI0003010
LITTLE TRAVERSE TOWNSHIP
Population Served
1,102
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MI0003927
Frequently Asked Questions About Harbor Springs Water
Is Harbor Springs tap water safe to drink?
Harbor Springs, Michigan tap water receives a grade of B (76/100), which is considered good. Out of 1 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 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 Harbor Springs's water?
Of the 1 contaminants tested in Harbor Springs's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). 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 Harbor Springs have any water quality violations?
Yes, Harbor Springs has 30 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include Other, MR, MCL. 8 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Harbor Springs?
Harbor Springs 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 Harbor Springs's tap water come from?
Harbor Springs's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by BIRCHWOOD FARMS and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 3,523 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Harbor Springs'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. Harbor Springs'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 Harbor Springs's water compare to other cities in Michigan?
Harbor Springs's water quality score of 76/100 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 Harbor Springs's water quality?
If you have concerns about Harbor Springs'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 (BIRCHWOOD FARMS) 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.