D36/100
Kenmare Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,296 residents · North Dakota
What's In Kenmare's Tap Water?
2
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 2.18 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 18, 2023 – November 20, 2023Rule: 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
UPPER SOURIS WATER DISTRICT-SYSTEM I
Population Served
1,296
Water Source
Purchased Groundwater
System ID
ND5101074
Frequently Asked Questions About Kenmare Water
Is Kenmare tap water safe to drink?
Kenmare, North Dakota tap water receives a grade of D (36/100), which is considered poor. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 12 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Kenmare's water?
Of the 2 contaminants tested in Kenmare's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Kenmare have any water quality violations?
Yes, Kenmare has 12 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, MCL. 11 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Kenmare?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Kenmare 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 Kenmare's tap water come from?
Kenmare's drinking water is sourced from purchased groundwater and supplied by UPPER SOURIS WATER DISTRICT-SYSTEM I. The system serves approximately 1,296 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Kenmare'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. Kenmare'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 Kenmare's water compare to other cities in North Dakota?
Kenmare's water quality score of 36/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our North Dakota state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Kenmare's water quality?
If you have concerns about Kenmare'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 (UPPER SOURIS WATER DISTRICT-SYSTEM I) 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.