US Water Score: A
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Copper |
1710.0
|
1300 ppb | 300 ppb |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Grand Marais, Michigan (49839) receives an overall grade of A (Lower record-based concern) with a score of 95 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 7 points above the Michigan state average of 88. Compared to the national average (75), this area performs significantly better. The area is served by Burt Township, a groundwater system providing water to approximately 411 people. The area has a clean violation record over the past 5 years — a positive indicator of consistent water quality management.
A score of 95/100 means public water-system records for Grand Marais, MI show relatively few concerns in the US Water Score model. This is an internal score, not an EPA safety rating, and it does not guarantee conditions at any specific tap.
Health Information
Copper can leach into water from copper plumbing, especially in newer homes or when water is acidic.
Short-term exposure above 1,300 ppb can cause gastrointestinal distress. Long-term exposure may cause liver or kidney damage. People with Wilson's disease are especially vulnerable.
Copper pipes, fittings, and faucets are the most common source. Corrosive (low-pH) water accelerates copper leaching.
If copper levels are elevated, flush pipes by running water for 15–30 seconds before use. Reverse osmosis and distillation systems effectively remove copper.
Common Questions
Based on public water-system records, Grand Marais, Michigan receives an internal US Water Score grade of A (Lower record-based concern) with a score of 95/100. This indicates relatively few system-level concerns in our model, but it is not an EPA safety rating and does not guarantee tap conditions inside individual homes.
ZIP code 49839 is served by 1 water system using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 411 people. Groundwater is naturally filtered through rock and soil, often requiring less treatment. However, it can be vulnerable to contamination from underground sources like naturally occurring arsenic, nitrates from agriculture, or PFAS from industrial sites.
No lead data is currently available for ZIP code 49839. This may mean lead testing results haven't been reported recently, or the serving water system uses monitoring waivers. You can request a free lead test kit from most water utilities or purchase a certified home testing kit.
Water systems serving Grand Marais, Michigan were not tested for PFAS under the EPA's UCMR5 monitoring program. This does not mean PFAS are absent — it means no data is currently available. UCMR5 testing covered approximately 10,000 of the largest water systems nationwide. You can request PFAS testing from your water utility or use a certified home test kit.
Water systems serving Grand Marais, Michigan have zero violations in the last 5 years. This is a positive indicator of consistent regulatory compliance and water quality management.
Based on detected contaminants (copper), residents in Grand Marais, Michigan should consider: Always look for filters with NSF/ANSI certification for the specific contaminants you want to remove.
Explore Nearby