US Water Score: B
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA MCL | Health Guideline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead |
14.0
|
15 ppb | 1 ppb | Warning |
Water Quality Summary
Tap water quality in Columbia Falls, Montana (59912) receives an overall grade of B (Moderate-low record-based concern) with a score of 77 out of 100, based on analysis of EPA compliance data, contaminant testing, and violation history. This is 13 points below the Montana state average of 90. The area is served by 25 water systems providing water to approximately 4,450 people, using groundwater sources. Testing has found elevated levels of Lead that warrant attention. The area has 37 violations over the past 5 years, though none were classified as health-based.
A score of 77/100 means Columbia Falls, MT performs well in the US Water Score model, with only minor system-level concerns. Residents should still review their utility's Consumer Confidence Report for official compliance information and household-specific context.
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.
Common Questions
Based on public water-system records, Columbia Falls, Montana receives an internal US Water Score grade of B (Moderate-low record-based concern) with a score of 77/100. 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 59912 is served by 25 water systems using groundwater sources, providing water to approximately 4,450 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 14.0 ppb in public-system records for Columbia Falls, Montana. 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 Columbia Falls, 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 Columbia Falls, Montana have received 37 violations in the last 5 years. 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.
Based on detected contaminants (lead), residents in Columbia Falls, 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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