A85/100
Hemlock Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,632 residents · Michigan
What's In Hemlock'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) | 0.006 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2024 – December 19, 2024Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: November 11, 2021 – November 19, 2021Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 1 — URGENTUnresolved
Maximum Contaminant Level Violation
When: October 1, 2021 – October 31, 2021Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underwayVerify 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
HEMLOCK/RICHLAND TOWNSHIP
Population Served
1,632
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MI0003110
Frequently Asked Questions About Hemlock Water
Is Hemlock tap water safe to drink?
Hemlock, Michigan tap water receives a grade of A (85/100), which is considered excellent. 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 Hemlock's water?
Of the 1 contaminants tested in Hemlock'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 Hemlock have any water quality violations?
Yes, Hemlock has 4 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include Other, RPT, MCL. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Hemlock?
Hemlock 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 Hemlock's tap water come from?
Hemlock's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by HEMLOCK/RICHLAND TOWNSHIP. The system serves approximately 1,632 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Hemlock'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. Hemlock'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 Hemlock's water compare to other cities in Michigan?
Hemlock's water quality score of 85/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Hemlock among the better-performing water systems in Michigan. Visit our Michigan state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Hemlock's water quality?
If you have concerns about Hemlock'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 (HEMLOCK/RICHLAND TOWNSHIP) 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.