B64/100
SALEM WATER DEPT — Water Quality Report 2026
Serving 21,000 people · New Hampshire
Water Source
Surface Water
County
—
System ID
NH2051010
Violations
10
Contaminant Test Results
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
PFOA | 0.008 µg/L | 0.004 µg/L | Over Limit |
chlorate | 270.00 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
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: April 1, 2024 – July 1, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: 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: April 1, 2024 – July 1, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: 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
Frequently Asked Questions About SALEM WATER DEPT
Is SALEM WATER DEPT water safe to drink?
SALEM WATER DEPT water receives a grade of B (64/100), which is considered good. Out of 69 contaminants tested, 1 exceed EPA legal limits. 3 contaminant(s) exceed non-enforceable health goals. The water meets federal safety standards.
What contaminants has SALEM WATER DEPT detected?
69 contaminants were tested in SALEM WATER DEPT's water. Notable contaminants include PFOA, Lead (90th percentile), chlorate. 1 exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs).
Does SALEM WATER DEPT have any EPA violations?
Yes, SALEM WATER DEPT has 10 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MR, Other, MCL. 3 are health-based violations.
How many people does SALEM WATER DEPT serve?
SALEM WATER DEPT serves approximately 21,000 people, New Hampshire. The system provides water to 1 community: Salem.
What type of water does SALEM WATER DEPT provide?
SALEM WATER DEPT sources its water from surface water. Surface water comes from rivers, lakes, or reservoirs and typically requires more extensive treatment. The utility's system ID is NH2051010.
How does SALEM WATER DEPT compare to other utilities in New Hampshire?
SALEM WATER DEPT scores 64/100 with a grade of B (good). This is an above-average performance for utilities statewide. Visit our New Hampshire state page for a full comparison of water systems.