A83/100
St. Joseph Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 8,700 residents · Minnesota
What's In St. Joseph's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.005 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 2, 2025 – February 4, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: 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
Saint Joseph
Population Served
7,100
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MN1730033
College of St. Benedict
Population Served
1,600
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MN1730034
Frequently Asked Questions About St. Joseph Water
Is St. Joseph tap water safe to drink?
St. Joseph, Minnesota tap water receives a grade of A (83/100), 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 St. Joseph's water?
Of the 32 contaminants tested in St. Joseph'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 St. Joseph have any water quality violations?
Yes, St. Joseph has 15 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include RPT, MR, MCL. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in St. Joseph?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in St. Joseph 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 St. Joseph's tap water come from?
St. Joseph's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by Saint Joseph and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 8,700 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is St. Joseph'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. St. Joseph'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 St. Joseph's water compare to other cities in Minnesota?
St. Joseph's water quality score of 83/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places St. Joseph 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 St. Joseph's water quality?
If you have concerns about St. Joseph'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 (Saint Joseph) 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.