F3/100
Buffalo Tap Water Quality: Is It Safe to Drink? (2026 Report)
Serving 4,419 residents · Wyoming
What's In Buffalo'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) | 0.002 mg/L | 0.015 mg/L | Above Goal |
EPA Violation History
7
Violations (last 5yr)
0
Unresolved
6
Health-Related
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: July 1, 2024 – September 30, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: April 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: April 1, 2024 – June 30, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: January 1, 2024 – March 31, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: January 1, 2024 – March 31, 2024Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 2Resolved
Exceeded the Maximum Contaminant Level (running average)
When: October 1, 2023 – December 31, 2023Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: Resolving — corrective action underway
TIER 3Resolved
Failed Level 2 Assessment under Revised Total Coliform Rule
This is a paperwork/process violation — it does not mean a contaminant was detected at unsafe levels.
When: July 1, 2021 – September 30, 2021Rule: Stage 2 DBPREnforcement: 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
BUFFALO, CITY OF
Population Served
4,419
Water Source
Surface Water
System ID
WY5600005
Frequently Asked Questions About Buffalo Water
Is Buffalo tap water safe to drink?
Buffalo, Wyoming tap water receives a grade of F (3/100), which is considered failing. 0 contaminant(s) exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels and 30 violation(s) are on record. Residents should consider using an NSF-certified water filter to reduce contaminant exposure.
What contaminants are in Buffalo's water?
Of the 31 contaminants tested in Buffalo'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 Buffalo have any water quality violations?
Yes, Buffalo has 30 EPA violation(s) on record, with the most recent in 2024. Violation types include MCL, MR, TT. 16 of these are health-based violations, which are the most serious category.
Do I need a water filter in Buffalo?
Buffalo 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 Buffalo's tap water come from?
Buffalo's drinking water is sourced from surface water and supplied by BUFFALO, CITY OF. The system serves approximately 4,419 people. Surface water sources include rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
How often is Buffalo'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. Buffalo'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 Buffalo's water compare to other cities in Wyoming?
Buffalo's water quality score of 3/100 earns a grade of F, which is considered failing. This is a concerning score that suggests significant water quality issues. Visit our Wyoming state page to see how all cities in the state compare.
What should I do if I'm concerned about Buffalo's water quality?
If you have concerns about Buffalo'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 (BUFFALO, CITY OF) 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.