B73/100
East Helena Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 4,114 residents · Montana
What's In East Helena'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) | 1.59 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
3
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: June 1, 2025 – June 30, 2025Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Consumer confidence report — late or incomplete delivery
When: November 4, 2022 – January 24, 2023Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2021 – August 5, 2021Enforcement: 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
EAST HELENA CITY OF
Population Served
2,114
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MT0000196
EASTGATE VILLAGE SEWER AND WATER
Population Served
2,000
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MT0001784
Frequently Asked Questions About East Helena Water
Is East Helena tap water safe to drink?
East Helena, Montana tap water receives a grade of B (73/100), which is considered good. Out of 2 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and 2 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 East Helena's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in East Helena'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 East Helena have any water quality violations?
Yes, East Helena has 28 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MON, Other, TT. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in East Helena?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in East Helena 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 East Helena's tap water come from?
East Helena's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by EAST HELENA CITY OF and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 4,114 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is East Helena'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. East Helena'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 East Helena's water compare to other cities in Montana?
East Helena's water quality score of 73/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Montana state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about East Helena's water quality?
If you have concerns about East Helena'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 (EAST HELENA CITY 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.