F0/100
Rice Lake Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 9,012 residents · Wisconsin
What's In Rice Lake's Tap Water?
52
Contaminants Tested
1
Exceed EPA Limits
2
Above EPA Goals
3 contaminants above EPA health goals
| Contaminant | Detected | Limit (MCL) | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
Copper (90th percentile) | 1.44 mg/L | 1.30 mg/L | Over Limit |
manganese | 406.78 µg/L | — | Above Goal |
Lead (90th percentile) | < 0.001 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: October 1, 2023 – October 31, 2023Rule: 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
RICE LAKE WATERWORKS
Population Served
9,012
Water Source
Groundwater
System ID
WI6030138
Frequently Asked Questions About Rice Lake Water
Is Rice Lake tap water safe to drink?
Rice Lake, Wisconsin tap water receives a grade of F (0/100), which is considered failing. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 37 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Rice Lake's water?
Of the 52 contaminants tested in Rice Lake's water supply, the most notable include Copper (90th percentile), Lead (90th percentile), manganese. 1 contaminant(s) exceed EPA legal limits (MCLs). 3 contaminant(s) exceed EPA health goals (MCLGs), which are non-enforceable targets set at levels with no known health risk.
Does Rice Lake have any water quality violations?
Yes, Rice Lake has 37 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2023. Violation types include MON, MCL, Other. 14 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Rice Lake?
Based on EPA data, using a water filter in Rice Lake is recommended. 1 contaminant(s) exceed legal limits. An NSF-certified filter — such as a reverse osmosis or activated carbon system — can effectively reduce many common contaminants. Choose a filter certified to remove the specific contaminants found in your area.
Where does Rice Lake's tap water come from?
Rice Lake's drinking water is sourced from groundwater and supplied by RICE LAKE WATERWORKS. The system serves approximately 9,012 people. Groundwater is pumped from underground aquifers, which often provides natural filtration.
How often is Rice Lake'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. Rice Lake'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 Rice Lake's water compare to other cities in Wisconsin?
Rice Lake's water quality score of 0/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Wisconsin state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Rice Lake's water quality?
If you have concerns about Rice Lake'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 (RICE LAKE 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.