C52/100
Bigfork Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 6,100 residents · Montana
What's In Bigfork's Tap Water?
32
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.49 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2015.
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
BIGFORK COUNTY WATER AND SEWER
Population Served
6,100
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MT0000262
Frequently Asked Questions About Bigfork Water
Is Bigfork tap water safe to drink?
Bigfork, Montana tap water receives a grade of C (52/100), which is considered fair. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 17 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Bigfork's water?
Of the 32 contaminants tested in Bigfork'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 Bigfork have any water quality violations?
Yes, Bigfork has 17 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2015. Violation types include MR, MCL. 5 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Bigfork?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Bigfork 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 Bigfork's tap water come from?
Bigfork's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by BIGFORK COUNTY WATER AND SEWER. The system serves approximately 6,100 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Bigfork'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. Bigfork'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 Bigfork's water compare to other cities in Montana?
Bigfork's water quality score of 52/100 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 Bigfork's water quality?
If you have concerns about Bigfork'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 (BIGFORK COUNTY WATER AND SEWER) 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.