A86/100
Red Lodge Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 2,000 residents · Montana
What's In Red Lodge's Tap Water?
1
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.004 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: September 1, 2021 – September 30, 2021Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2021 – July 26, 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
RED LODGE WATER DEPT
Population Served
2,000
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
MT0000314
Frequently Asked Questions About Red Lodge Water
Is Red Lodge tap water safe to drink?
Red Lodge, Montana tap water receives a grade of A (86/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 1 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 Red Lodge's water?
Of the 1 contaminants tested in Red Lodge'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 Red Lodge have any water quality violations?
Yes, Red Lodge has 11 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2021. Violation types include MON, Other, MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Red Lodge?
Red Lodge 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 Red Lodge's tap water come from?
Red Lodge's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by RED LODGE WATER DEPT. The system serves approximately 2,000 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Red Lodge'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. Red Lodge'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 Red Lodge's water compare to other cities in Montana?
Red Lodge's water quality score of 86/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Red Lodge among the better-performing water systems in Montana. Visit our Montana state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Red Lodge's water quality?
If you have concerns about Red Lodge'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 (RED LODGE WATER DEPT) 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.