C42/100
Poplar Bluff Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 28,543 residents · Missouri
What's In Poplar Bluff's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
chlorate | 1420.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
1
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Unresolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
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
POPLAR BLUFF PWS
Population Served
17,043
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
MO4010656
BUTLER COUNTY PWSD 1
Population Served
11,500
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MO4024070
Frequently Asked Questions About Poplar Bluff Water
Is Poplar Bluff tap water safe to drink?
Poplar Bluff, Missouri tap water receives a grade of C (42/100), which is considered fair. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 75 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Poplar Bluff's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in Poplar Bluff's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Poplar Bluff have any water quality violations?
Yes, Poplar Bluff has 75 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MCL, TT, MR. 41 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Poplar Bluff?
Poplar Bluff 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. 2 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does Poplar Bluff's tap water come from?
Poplar Bluff's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by POPLAR BLUFF PWS and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 28,543 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Poplar Bluff'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. Poplar Bluff'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 Poplar Bluff's water compare to other cities in Missouri?
Poplar Bluff's water quality score of 42/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our Missouri state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Poplar Bluff's water quality?
If you have concerns about Poplar Bluff'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 (POPLAR BLUFF PWS) 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.