US Water Score: A
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
5.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
| Copper |
1380.0
|
1300 ppb | 300 ppb |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Forest City, Iowa (50436) receives an overall grade of A (Lower record-based concern) with a score of 88 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 7 points below the Iowa state average of 95. Compared to the national average (75), this area performs significantly better. The area is served by Forest City Water Supply, a groundwater system providing water to approximately 4,285 people. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. The area has a clean violation record over the past 5 years — a positive indicator of consistent water quality management.
A score of 88/100 means public water-system records for Forest City, IA 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
Lead is a toxic metal that can leach from aging pipes and plumbing fixtures.
Even low levels of lead exposure can cause developmental delays in children, kidney damage, and cardiovascular effects in adults. The EPA action level is 15 ppb, but health experts recommend no safe level of lead in drinking water.
Lead enters water primarily through corrosion of lead service lines, lead solder, and brass fixtures — especially in homes built before 1986.
If lead is detected above 1 ppb, consider using a certified lead-removal filter (NSF/ANSI 53) for drinking and cooking water. Run cold water for 30 seconds before use if water has been sitting in pipes.
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, Forest City, Iowa receives an internal US Water Score grade of A (Lower record-based concern) with a score of 88/100. 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 50436 is served by 1 water system using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 4,285 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.
Lead was reported at 5.0 ppb in public-system records for Forest City, Iowa. This is below the currently applicable EPA action level of 15 ppb, but may be above more protective health guidance; EPA's future LCRI action level is 10 ppb. Household plumbing can materially change tap-level exposure, so consider certified filtration and individual tap testing, especially where children are present.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Forest City, Iowa during the most recent EPA monitoring period (UCMR5). However, not all water systems have been tested for all PFAS compounds, and new contamination can occur over time.
Water systems serving Forest City, Iowa 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 (lead, copper), residents in Forest City, Iowa should consider: NSF/ANSI 53 certified filter — specifically rated for lead reduction. Pitcher filters (like Brita Longlast or PUR) and under-sink systems both work. Always look for filters with NSF/ANSI certification for the specific contaminants you want to remove.