B61/100
Cornell Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 1,390 residents · Wisconsin
What's In Cornell'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) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Failed to issue ongoing public notification
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: June 1, 2023 – August 7, 2024Rule: Ground Water 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
CORNELL WATERWORKS
Population Served
1,390
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WI6090458
Frequently Asked Questions About Cornell Water
Is Cornell tap water safe to drink?
Cornell, Wisconsin tap water receives a grade of B (61/100), which is considered good. 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 Cornell's water?
Of the 21 contaminants tested in Cornell'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 Cornell have any water quality violations?
Yes, Cornell has 12 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, MON, TT. 6 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Cornell?
Cornell 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 Cornell's tap water come from?
Cornell's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by CORNELL WATERWORKS. The system serves approximately 1,390 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Cornell'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. Cornell'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 Cornell's water compare to other cities in Wisconsin?
Cornell's water quality score of 61/100 earns a grade of B, which is considered good. This is an above-average score compared to many cities nationwide. Visit our Wisconsin state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Cornell's water quality?
If you have concerns about Cornell'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 (CORNELL 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.