D37/100
Independence Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 10,300 residents · Oregon
What's In Independence's Tap Water?
32
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
2 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.45 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
No violations in the past 5 years
Full EPA compliance since 2020.
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
INDEPENDENCE WATER SYSTEM
Population Served
10,300
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
OR4100399
Frequently Asked Questions About Independence Water
Is Independence tap water safe to drink?
Independence, Oregon tap water receives a grade of D (37/100), which is considered poor. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 52 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Independence's water?
Of the 32 contaminants tested in Independence'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 Independence have any water quality violations?
Yes, Independence has 52 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2020. Violation types include MON, MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Independence?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Independence 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 Independence's tap water come from?
Independence's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by INDEPENDENCE WATER SYSTEM. The system serves approximately 10,300 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Independence'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. Independence'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 Independence's water compare to other cities in Oregon?
Independence's water quality score of 37/100 earns a grade of D, which is considered poor. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Oregon state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Independence's water quality?
If you have concerns about Independence'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 (INDEPENDENCE WATER SYSTEM) 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.