A85/100
Forks Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 4,744 residents · Washington
What's In Forks's Tap Water?
31
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (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: June 1, 2022 – June 30, 2022Rule: Total Coliform 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
FORKS MUNICIPAL WATER DEPT
Population Served
4,744
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WA5326000
Frequently Asked Questions About Forks Water
Is Forks tap water safe to drink?
Forks, Washington tap water receives a grade of A (85/100), 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 Forks's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Forks'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 Forks have any water quality violations?
Yes, Forks has 12 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2022. Violation types include MON, MR. None of these are classified as health-based violations.
Do I need a water filter in Forks?
Forks 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 Forks's tap water come from?
Forks's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by FORKS MUNICIPAL WATER DEPT. The system serves approximately 4,744 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Forks'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. Forks'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 Forks's water compare to other cities in Washington?
Forks's water quality score of 85/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Forks among the better-performing water systems in Washington. Visit our Washington state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Forks's water quality?
If you have concerns about Forks'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 (FORKS MUNICIPAL WATER DEPT) 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.