Record-only indicator: A
Not a safety rating. Missing or old measurements can produce a high score.
Coverage: 52/52 mapped systems have a dated lead result; 1/52 have copper results; 2/52 have UCMR monitoring.
| Contaminant | Reported value or bound | Historical comparison value | Interpretation | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
39.0 ppbPeriod end: 12/31/2025
|
15 ppb | Largest reported value or bound among mapped systems; not necessarily the largest actual concentration. | Above comparison value |
| Copper |
1860.0 ppbPeriod end: 12/31/2007
|
1300 ppb | Largest reported value or bound among mapped systems; not necessarily the largest actual concentration. | Above comparison value |
UCMR5 occurrence results are screening information, not a finding of regulatory compliance or noncompliance. PFAS rules and compliance dates are evolving.
| Compound | Level | EPA MCL | Interpretation | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PFOS | 6.6 ppt | 4 ppt | 4 ppt | Above comparison value |
| PFHxS | 5.0 ppt | 10 ppt | 10 ppt | Below comparison value |
Public-record summary
Record-only indicator — incomplete or old records can produce a high score. A score of 100 is not a safety finding. Coverage: 52/52 mapped systems have a dated lead result; 1/52 have copper results; 2/52 have UCMR monitoring. Tap water quality in Kalispell, Montana (59901) receives an record-only indicator 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 roughly in line with the Montana state average of 90. The area is served by 52 water systems providing water to approximately 25,000 people, using groundwater sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead, Copper that warrant attention. Notably, 1 PFAS compound exceeds the EPA final MCL value used for comparison — a significant concern given the persistent nature of these chemicals. Over the past 5 years, water systems here have accumulated 34 violations, including 3 health-based violations.
Grade A summarizes the records available to this model, not household safety. Missing, bounded or old measurements can produce a high score, including 100. Review coverage, dates and the current utility report before interpreting this indicator.
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
The record-only indicator is A (88/100). It cannot determine whether your tap water is safe. Missing, bounded or old measurements can produce a high score. Check the coverage and sampling dates below and your utility's current notices.
ZIP code 59901 is served by 52 water systems using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 25,000 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.
The largest reported lead value or bound is 39.0 ppb, for the sampling period ending 12/31/2025. This is a system-level 90th-percentile record, not a measurement at your tap. Compare the sampling date and original utility report before interpreting it.
Yes — 2 PFAS compounds were detected in records associated with water serving Kalispell, Montana, and 1 result exceeded the numerical EPA MCL value used for comparison. UCMR5 occurrence results alone are not a regulatory compliance determination. PFAS rules and compliance timelines are evolving; verify current information with the utility and EPA.
Water systems serving Kalispell, Montana have received 34 violations in the last 5 years, including 3 health-based violations. Violations can range from paperwork issues (monitoring & reporting) to serious health-based violations where contaminant levels exceeded safe limits. Review the violation details above for specifics.
This public-record indicator cannot select household treatment. Confirm your supplier, current utility report and tap-testing results first; match any treatment to a certified contaminant-reduction claim and follow its maintenance instructions.
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