A86/100
Sandy Creek Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 2,933 residents · New York
What's In Sandy Creek'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) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
6
Violations (last 5yr)
6
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
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: January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
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: January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2025Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
Reporting violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 17, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 2Unresolved
Treatment technique violation
When: October 17, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
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: January 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
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: January 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
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
SANDY CREEK/LACONA JOINT WATERWORKS
Population Served
1,469
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NY3704365
SANDY CREEK TOWN WD #1
Population Served
1,464
Water Source
Purchased Groundwater
System ID
NY3730200
Frequently Asked Questions About Sandy Creek Water
Is Sandy Creek tap water safe to drink?
Sandy Creek, New York 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 Sandy Creek's water?
Of the 1 contaminants tested in Sandy Creek'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 Sandy Creek have any water quality violations?
Yes, Sandy Creek has 17 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, RPT, TT. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Sandy Creek?
Sandy Creek 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 Sandy Creek's tap water come from?
Sandy Creek's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by SANDY CREEK/LACONA JOINT WATERWORKS and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 2,933 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Sandy Creek'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. Sandy Creek'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 Sandy Creek's water compare to other cities in New York?
Sandy Creek's water quality score of 86/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Sandy Creek among the better-performing water systems in New York. Visit our New York state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Sandy Creek's water quality?
If you have concerns about Sandy Creek'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 (SANDY CREEK/LACONA JOINT WATERWORKS) 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.