A91/100
Rusk Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 8,740 residents · Texas
What's In Rusk's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
0
Above EPA Goals
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
3
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Unresolved
Failed to issue ongoing public notification
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: January 1, 2025 – June 30, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Unresolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: February 19, 2023Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Informal — resolved cooperativelyVerify on EPA.gov
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to conduct Level 1 Assessment
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: September 16, 2021 – August 23, 2023Rule: Consumer Confidence 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
CITY OF RUSK
Population Served
5,602
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
TX0370003
RUSK RURAL WSC CROCKETT ST PLANT
Population Served
1,752
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
TX0370031
RUSK RURAL WSC LOOP 343 PLANT
Population Served
1,386
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
TX0370054
Frequently Asked Questions About Rusk Water
Is Rusk tap water safe to drink?
Rusk, Texas tap water receives a grade of A (91/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 31 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 Rusk's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Rusk'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 Rusk have any water quality violations?
Yes, Rusk has 20 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2025. Violation types include MON, MR, Other. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Rusk?
Rusk 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 Rusk's tap water come from?
Rusk's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by CITY OF RUSK and 2 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 8,740 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Rusk'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. Rusk'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 Rusk's water compare to other cities in Texas?
Rusk's water quality score of 91/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Rusk among the better-performing water systems in Texas. Visit our Texas state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Rusk's water quality?
If you have concerns about Rusk'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 (CITY OF RUSK) 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.