C42/100
Anaconda Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 8,715 residents · Montana
What's In Anaconda'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) | 0.008 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to conduct Level 1 Assessment
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: August 16, 2023Rule: Consumer Confidence 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
ANACONDA WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
6,750
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MT0000016
FAIRMONT HOT SPRINGS RESORT
Population Served
1,965
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MT0000589
Frequently Asked Questions About Anaconda Water
Is Anaconda tap water safe to drink?
Anaconda, Montana tap water receives a grade of C (42/100), which is considered fair. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 74 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Anaconda's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Anaconda'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 Anaconda have any water quality violations?
Yes, Anaconda has 74 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 9 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Anaconda?
Anaconda 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 Anaconda's tap water come from?
Anaconda's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by ANACONDA WATER DEPARTMENT and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 8,715 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Anaconda'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. Anaconda'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 Anaconda's water compare to other cities in Montana?
Anaconda'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 Montana state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Anaconda's water quality?
If you have concerns about Anaconda'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 (ANACONDA WATER DEPARTMENT) 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.