B66/100
El Rito Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,200 residents · New Mexico
What's In El Rito'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) | 0.004 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: July 12, 2021 – September 22, 2021Rule: Ground Water 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
EL RITO REGIONAL WATER & WASTE WATER ASN
Population Served
1,200
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NM3504021
Frequently Asked Questions About El Rito Water
Is El Rito tap water safe to drink?
El Rito, New Mexico tap water receives a grade of B (66/100), 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 El Rito's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in El Rito'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 El Rito have any water quality violations?
Yes, El Rito has 23 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2021. Violation types include Other, MON, MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in El Rito?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in El Rito 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 El Rito's tap water come from?
El Rito's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by EL RITO REGIONAL WATER & WASTE WATER ASN. The system serves approximately 1,200 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is El Rito'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. El Rito'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 El Rito's water compare to other cities in New Mexico?
El Rito's water quality score of 66/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our New Mexico state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about El Rito's water quality?
If you have concerns about El Rito'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 (EL RITO REGIONAL WATER & WASTE WATER ASN) 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.