D29/100
Columbus Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,900 residents · Montana
What's In Columbus's Tap Water?
2
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.40 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.004 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2018.
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
COLUMBUS TOWN OF
Population Served
1,900
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MT0000185
Frequently Asked Questions About Columbus Water
Is Columbus tap water safe to drink?
Columbus, Montana tap water receives a grade of D (29/100), which is considered poor. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 60 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Columbus's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in Columbus'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 Columbus have any water quality violations?
Yes, Columbus has 60 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2018. Violation types include Other, MON, MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Columbus?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Columbus 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 Columbus's tap water come from?
Columbus's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by COLUMBUS TOWN OF. The system serves approximately 1,900 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Columbus'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. Columbus'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 Columbus's water compare to other cities in Montana?
Columbus's water quality score of 29/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Montana state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Columbus's water quality?
If you have concerns about Columbus'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 (COLUMBUS TOWN OF) 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.