A88/100
Pelican Rapids Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 2,577 residents · Minnesota
What's In Pelican Rapids's Tap Water?
2
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.56 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.007 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 1999.
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
Pelican Rapids
Population Served
2,577
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MN1560019
Frequently Asked Questions About Pelican Rapids Water
Is Pelican Rapids tap water safe to drink?
Pelican Rapids, Minnesota tap water receives a grade of A (88/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 2 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 Pelican Rapids's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in Pelican Rapids'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 Pelican Rapids have any water quality violations?
Yes, Pelican Rapids has 1 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 1999. Violation types include MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Pelican Rapids?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Pelican Rapids 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 Pelican Rapids's tap water come from?
Pelican Rapids's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by Pelican Rapids. The system serves approximately 2,577 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Pelican Rapids'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. Pelican Rapids'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 Pelican Rapids's water compare to other cities in Minnesota?
Pelican Rapids's water quality score of 88/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Pelican Rapids 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 Pelican Rapids's water quality?
If you have concerns about Pelican Rapids'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 (Pelican Rapids) 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.