A85/100
New Ulm Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 14,052 residents · Minnesota
What's In New Ulm's Tap Water?
67
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.40 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2021.
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
New Ulm
Population Served
14,052
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MN1080003
Frequently Asked Questions About New Ulm Water
Is New Ulm tap water safe to drink?
New Ulm, Minnesota tap water receives a grade of A (85/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 67 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 New Ulm's water?
Of the 67 contaminants tested in New Ulm'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 New Ulm have any water quality violations?
Yes, New Ulm has 4 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2021. Violation types include MR, MON. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in New Ulm?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in New Ulm 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 New Ulm's tap water come from?
New Ulm's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by New Ulm. The system serves approximately 14,052 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is New Ulm'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. New Ulm'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 New Ulm's water compare to other cities in Minnesota?
New Ulm's water quality score of 85/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places New Ulm 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 New Ulm's water quality?
If you have concerns about New Ulm'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 (New Ulm) 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.