B74/100
West Plains Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 15,776 residents · Missouri
What's In West Plains's Tap Water?
69
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2023 – November 1, 2023Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 1 — URGENTResolved
Violation related to Nitrate
When: June 1, 2023 – June 30, 2023Rule: Surface Water Treatment 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
WEST PLAINS PWS
Population Served
12,864
Water Source
Groundwater Under Influence of Surface Water
System ID
MO4010853
HOWELL OREGON 2 WEST
Population Served
1,170
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MO4021376
HOWELL OREGON COUNTY PWSD 2 NORTH
Population Served
1,742
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MO4024267
Frequently Asked Questions About West Plains Water
Is West Plains tap water safe to drink?
West Plains, Missouri tap water receives a grade of B (74/100), which is considered good. Out of 69 contaminants tested, none exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 1 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 West Plains's water?
Of the 69 contaminants tested in West Plains's water supply, the most notable include Lead (90th percentile). No contaminants exceed EPA legal limits. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does West Plains have any water quality violations?
Yes, West Plains has 19 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include Other, TT, MCL. 14 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in West Plains?
West Plains 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. 1 contaminant(s) exceed these stricter goals.
Where does West Plains's tap water come from?
West Plains's drinking water is sourced from groundwater under influence of surface water and supplied by WEST PLAINS PWS and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 15,776 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is West Plains'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. West Plains'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 West Plains's water compare to other cities in Missouri?
West Plains's water quality score of 74/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Missouri state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about West Plains's water quality?
If you have concerns about West Plains'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 (WEST PLAINS 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.