A86/100
Gothenburg Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 3,578 residents · Nebraska
What's In Gothenburg'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) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Reporting violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 17, 2024 – May 20, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 1 — URGENTResolved
Maximum Contaminant Level Violation
When: August 1, 2024 – August 31, 2024Rule: Total Coliform 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
GOTHENBURG, CITY OF
Population Served
3,578
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NE3104702
Frequently Asked Questions About Gothenburg Water
Is Gothenburg tap water safe to drink?
Gothenburg, Nebraska tap water receives a grade of A (86/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 31 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 Gothenburg's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Gothenburg'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 Gothenburg have any water quality violations?
Yes, Gothenburg has 3 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include RPT, MCL. 2 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Gothenburg?
Gothenburg 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 Gothenburg's tap water come from?
Gothenburg's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by GOTHENBURG, CITY OF. The system serves approximately 3,578 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Gothenburg'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. Gothenburg'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 Gothenburg's water compare to other cities in Nebraska?
Gothenburg's water quality score of 86/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Gothenburg among the better-performing water systems in Nebraska. Visit our Nebraska state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Gothenburg's water quality?
If you have concerns about Gothenburg'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 (GOTHENBURG, 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.