B76/100
La Crosse Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 54,020 residents · Wisconsin
What's In La Crosse's Tap Water?
73
Contaminants Tested
0
Exceed EPA Limits
1
Above EPA Goals
1 contaminant above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Lead (90th percentile) | 0.011 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
1
Violation (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
0
Health-Related
TIER 3Resolved
Monitoring / Reporting Violation
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: April 1, 2023Rule: 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
LA CROSSE WATERWORKS
Population Served
53,000
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WI6320309
SHELBY TN OF WEDGEWOOD VLY
Population Served
1,020
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WI6320311
Frequently Asked Questions About La Crosse Water
Is La Crosse tap water safe to drink?
La Crosse, Wisconsin tap water receives a grade of B (76/100), which is considered good. Out of 73 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 La Crosse's water?
Of the 73 contaminants tested in La Crosse'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 La Crosse have any water quality violations?
Yes, La Crosse has 29 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MR, MON, Other. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in La Crosse?
La Crosse 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 La Crosse's tap water come from?
La Crosse's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by LA CROSSE WATERWORKS and 1 other water system(s). The system serves approximately 54,020 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is La Crosse'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. La Crosse'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 La Crosse's water compare to other cities in Wisconsin?
La Crosse's water quality score of 76/100 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 La Crosse's water quality?
If you have concerns about La Crosse'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 (LA CROSSE 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.