A95/100
Grand Marais Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,344 residents · Minnesota
What's In Grand Marais's Tap Water?
1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Missed required monitoring deadline
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: September 1, 2023 – September 30, 2023Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
Missed required monitoring deadline
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: August 1, 2023 – August 31, 2023Rule: Surface Water Treatment RuleEnforcement: 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
Grand Marais
Population Served
1,344
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
MN1160001
Frequently Asked Questions About Grand Marais Water
Is Grand Marais tap water safe to drink?
Grand Marais, Minnesota tap water receives a grade of A (95/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 1 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs). While the water meets federal standards, some residents may still choose to use a filter for additional peace of mind.
What contaminants are in Grand Marais's water?
1 contaminants were tested in Grand Marais's water supply. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs) or health goals (MCLGs), which is a positive indicator of water quality.
Does Grand Marais have any water quality violations?
Yes, Grand Marais has 5 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Grand Marais?
Grand Marais 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. All contaminants are within health goals.
Where does Grand Marais's tap water come from?
Grand Marais's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by Grand Marais. The system serves approximately 1,344 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Grand Marais'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. Grand Marais'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 Grand Marais's water compare to other cities in Minnesota?
Grand Marais's water quality score of 95/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Grand Marais among the better-performing water systems in Minnesota. Visit our Minnesota state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Grand Marais's water quality?
If you have concerns about Grand Marais'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 (Grand Marais) 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.