Excellent Water Quality
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
10.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
| Copper |
1930.0
|
1300 ppb | 300 ppb | Exceeded |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Medicine Lake, Montana (59247) receives an overall grade of A (Excellent) with a score of 93 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 18 points above the Montana state average of 75. Compared to the national average (75), this area performs significantly better. The area is served by Medicine Lake Town Of, a surface water system providing water to approximately 600 people. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead, Copper 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 93/100 means the water supply in Medicine Lake, MT meets or exceeds all EPA standards with minimal issues. Contaminant levels are well within safe limits, and the water system has maintained a strong compliance record. While no water supply is guaranteed perfect at the tap due to household plumbing, this is among the best-scoring areas in the country.
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 EPA data, tap water in Medicine Lake, Montana receives a grade of A (Excellent) with a score of 93/100. This indicates the water meets federal standards and has relatively few concerns. However, individual homes may still have localized issues such as lead from old plumbing.
ZIP code 59247 is served by 1 water system using surface water sources, providing water to approximately 600 people. Surface water systems are more susceptible to contamination from agricultural runoff, industrial discharge, and weather events, but typically undergo more extensive treatment including filtration and disinfection.
Lead was detected at 10.0 ppb in Medicine Lake, Montana. While this is below the EPA action level of 15 ppb, it exceeds the health guideline of 1 ppb recommended by health organizations. Consider a certified lead filter, especially if you have young children.
No PFAS ("forever chemicals") were detected in water systems serving Medicine Lake, Montana 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 Medicine Lake, Montana 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 Medicine Lake, Montana 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.
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