B77/100
Oconto Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 4,610 residents · Wisconsin
What's In Oconto'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) | 0.003 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
2
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
1
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Treatment technique violation
When: October 17, 2024 – May 27, 2025Rule: Ground Water RuleEnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Disinfection byproduct treatment technique failure
When: October 17, 2024 – June 30, 2025Rule: 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
OCONTO WATERWORKS
Population Served
4,610
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WI4430495
Frequently Asked Questions About Oconto Water
Is Oconto tap water safe to drink?
Oconto, Wisconsin tap water receives a grade of B (77/100), which is considered good. 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 Oconto's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Oconto'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 Oconto have any water quality violations?
Yes, Oconto has 8 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include TT, Other, MCL. 3 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Oconto?
Oconto 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 Oconto's tap water come from?
Oconto's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by OCONTO WATERWORKS. The system serves approximately 4,610 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Oconto'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. Oconto'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 Oconto's water compare to other cities in Wisconsin?
Oconto's water quality score of 77/100 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 Oconto's water quality?
If you have concerns about Oconto'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 (OCONTO 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.