D30/100
Chimayo Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,050 residents · New Mexico
What's In Chimayo'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) | 1.80 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
6
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2025 – July 2, 2025Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2023 – August 9, 2023Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2022 – October 11, 2022Enforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 1, 2021 – December 31, 2021Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 1, 2021 – October 31, 2021Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2021 – July 29, 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
GREATER CHIMAYO MDWCA
Population Served
1,050
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NM3502426
Frequently Asked Questions About Chimayo Water
Is Chimayo tap water safe to drink?
Chimayo, New Mexico tap water receives a grade of D (30/100), which is considered poor. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 27 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Chimayo's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in Chimayo'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 Chimayo have any water quality violations?
Yes, Chimayo has 27 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include Other, MR, MON. 8 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Chimayo?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Chimayo 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 Chimayo's tap water come from?
Chimayo's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by GREATER CHIMAYO MDWCA. The system serves approximately 1,050 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Chimayo'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. Chimayo'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 Chimayo's water compare to other cities in New Mexico?
Chimayo's water quality score of 30/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our New Mexico state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Chimayo's water quality?
If you have concerns about Chimayo'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 (GREATER CHIMAYO MDWCA) 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.