A80/100
Ishpeming Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 8,618 residents · Michigan
What's In Ishpeming's Tap Water?
32
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.55 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
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 2018.
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
ISHPEMING
Population Served
6,470
Water Source
Purchased Groundwater
System ID
MI0003440
ISHPEMING TWP - WEST
Population Served
2,148
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MI0003450
Frequently Asked Questions About Ishpeming Water
Is Ishpeming tap water safe to drink?
Ishpeming, Michigan tap water receives a grade of A (80/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 32 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 Ishpeming's water?
Of the 32 contaminants tested in Ishpeming'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 Ishpeming have any water quality violations?
Yes, Ishpeming has 9 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2018. Violation types include MR, RPT, MCL. 4 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Ishpeming?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Ishpeming 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 Ishpeming's tap water come from?
Ishpeming's drinking water is sourced from purchased groundwater and supplied by ISHPEMING and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 8,618 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Ishpeming'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. Ishpeming'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 Ishpeming's water compare to other cities in Michigan?
Ishpeming's water quality score of 80/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Ishpeming 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 Ishpeming's water quality?
If you have concerns about Ishpeming'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 (ISHPEMING) 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.