F16/100
Iron River Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 3,019 residents · Michigan
What's In Iron River'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) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: March 1, 2024 – March 31, 2024Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2023 – November 27, 2023Enforcement: 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
IRON RIVER
Population Served
3,019
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MI0003410
Frequently Asked Questions About Iron River Water
Is Iron River tap water safe to drink?
Iron River, Michigan tap water receives a grade of F (16/100), which is considered failing. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 25 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Iron River's water?
Of the 1 contaminants tested in Iron River'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 Iron River have any water quality violations?
Yes, Iron River has 25 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MON, Other, MCL. 14 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Iron River?
Iron River 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 Iron River's tap water come from?
Iron River's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by IRON RIVER. The system serves approximately 3,019 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Iron River'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. Iron River'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 Iron River's water compare to other cities in Michigan?
Iron River's water quality score of 16/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Michigan state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Iron River's water quality?
If you have concerns about Iron River'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 (IRON RIVER) 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.