A88/100
Amherst Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,119 residents · Wisconsin
What's In Amherst's Tap Water?
21
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.006 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
4
Violations (last 5yr)
2
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Reporting violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: October 17, 2024 – November 1, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Treatment technique violation
When: October 17, 2024 – November 1, 2024Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Unresolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
TIER 3Unresolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
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
AMHERST WATERWORKS
Population Served
1,119
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WI7500094
Frequently Asked Questions About Amherst Water
Is Amherst tap water safe to drink?
Amherst, Wisconsin tap water receives a grade of A (88/100), which is considered excellent. Out of 21 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 Amherst's water?
Of the 21 contaminants tested in Amherst'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 Amherst have any water quality violations?
Yes, Amherst has 5 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include RPT, TT, Other. 1 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Amherst?
Amherst 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 Amherst's tap water come from?
Amherst's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by AMHERST WATERWORKS. The system serves approximately 1,119 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Amherst'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. Amherst'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 Amherst's water compare to other cities in Wisconsin?
Amherst's water quality score of 88/100 earns a grade of A, which is considered excellent. This places Amherst among the better-performing water systems in Wisconsin. Visit our Wisconsin state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Amherst's water quality?
If you have concerns about Amherst'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 (AMHERST WATERWORKS) 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.