C40/100
Alto Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 2,870 residents · New Mexico
What's In Alto'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) | 0.006 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2007.
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
ALTO LAKES WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT
Population Served
2,870
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NM3558514
Frequently Asked Questions About Alto Water
Is Alto tap water safe to drink?
Alto, New Mexico tap water receives a grade of C (40/100), which is considered fair. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 57 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Alto's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Alto'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 Alto have any water quality violations?
Yes, Alto has 57 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2007. Violation types include MR, Other. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Alto?
Alto 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 Alto's tap water come from?
Alto's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by ALTO LAKES WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT. The system serves approximately 2,870 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Alto'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. Alto'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 Alto's water compare to other cities in New Mexico?
Alto's water quality score of 40/100 earns a grade of C, which is considered fair. This is a below-average score that indicates room for improvement. Visit our New Mexico state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Alto's water quality?
If you have concerns about Alto'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 (ALTO LAKES WATER AND SANITATION DISTRICT) 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.