D21/100
Jackson Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 13,050 residents · North Carolina
What's In Jackson's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
7
Violations (last 5yr)
2
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.
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.
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 – July 16, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Treatment technique violation
When: October 17, 2024 – July 16, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: September 4, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: June 11, 2023 – August 18, 2023Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Formal — state order issued
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2021 – November 19, 2021Enforcement: Formal — state order issued
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
NORTHAMPTON--PROGRESSIVE
Population Served
2,228
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NC0466045
NORTHAMPTON--MILWAUKEE
Population Served
5,715
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
NC0466108
NORTHAMPTON--LAKE GASTON
Population Served
3,984
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NC0466110
NORTHAMPTON--GASTON
Population Served
1,123
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
NC0466113
Frequently Asked Questions About Jackson Water
Is Jackson tap water safe to drink?
Jackson, North Carolina tap water receives a grade of D (21/100), which is considered poor. 2 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 214 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Jackson's water?
Of the 39 contaminants tested in Jackson's water supply, the most notable include PFOS, Copper (90th percentile). 2 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 Jackson have any water quality violations?
Yes, Jackson has 214 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MR, MON, RPT. 35 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Jackson?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Jackson is recommended. 2 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 Jackson's tap water come from?
Jackson's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by NORTHAMPTON--PROGRESSIVE and 3 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 13,050 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Jackson'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. Jackson'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 Jackson's water compare to other cities in North Carolina?
Jackson's water quality score of 21/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our North Carolina state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Jackson's water quality?
If you have concerns about Jackson'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 (NORTHAMPTON--PROGRESSIVE) 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.