B77/100
Baxter Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 7,781 residents · Tennessee
What's In Baxter's Tap Water?
34
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.001 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: March 1, 2025 – March 31, 2025Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: February 1, 2025 – February 28, 2025Rule: Total Coliform RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
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 – March 31, 2025Rule: Stage 1 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Surface water treatment technique failure
When: July 1, 2021 – August 26, 2021Enforcement: 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
BAXTER WATER DEPARTMENT
Population Served
7,781
Water Source
Purchased Surface Water
System ID
TN0000040
Frequently Asked Questions About Baxter Water
Is Baxter tap water safe to drink?
Baxter, Tennessee tap water receives a grade of B (77/100), which is considered good. Out of 34 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 Baxter's water?
Of the 34 contaminants tested in Baxter'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 Baxter have any water quality violations?
Yes, Baxter has 20 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MON, MR, Other. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Baxter?
Baxter 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 Baxter's tap water come from?
Baxter's drinking water is sourced from purchased surface water and supplied by BAXTER WATER DEPARTMENT. The system serves approximately 7,781 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Baxter'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. Baxter'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 Baxter's water compare to other cities in Tennessee?
Baxter's water quality score of 77/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Tennessee state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Baxter's water quality?
If you have concerns about Baxter'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 (BAXTER WATER DEPARTMENT) 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.