Microbial Low Risk
Turbidity
Indicates potential microbial contamination, interferes with disinfection
Sources: Soil runoff, Urban runoff, Algae
Regulatory Limit
Zero EPA Limit (1 NTU)
*Levels above the EPA limit are considered unsafe.
MCL Value
1 NTU
Goal (MCLG)
0 NTU
Violating Systems
8 nationwide
Affected Population
2.9M estimated
Avg Detected Level
0.5873 NTU in affected systems
Health Risk Assessment
Exposure to Turbidity in drinking water is regulated because of its potential to cause indicates potential microbial contamination, interferes with disinfection. The EPA has set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) at 1 NTU to protect public health.
Note: Long-term exposure above the MCL can significantly increase health risks.
Detailed Health Effects
Indicates potential microbial contamination, interferes with disinfection
Common Sources
1
Soil runoff 2
Urban runoff 3
Algae National Overview
Total Tests
63
Violations Found
8
Violation Rate
12.7%
Top States by Violations
Most Affected Systems
65
Erie Water Works
C PA2510001 Erie, PA
101,786 served
89
San Antonio Water System
B TX0150001 San Antonio, TX
1,900,000 served
65
United Water Boise (SUEZ)
C ID0010100 Boise, ID
235,684 served
81
Edmond Water Resources
B OK3010002 Oklahoma City, OK
95,000 served
81
Knoxville Utilities Board
B TN0000470 Knoxville, TN
190,740 served
65
Salt Lake City Department of Public Utilities
C UT1800020 Salt Lake City, UT
200,133 served
81
Charleston Water System
B SC1010001 Charleston, SC
150,227 served
89
Security Water District (CO Springs)
B CO0410002 Colorado Springs, CO
50,000 served
Treatment Methods
Coagulation
Sedimentation
Filtration
Is this in your water?
Find out if your local water system has detected Turbidity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Turbidity and why is it in drinking water?
Turbidity is a microbial contaminant. Common sources include: Soil runoff, Urban runoff, Algae.
What are the health effects of Turbidity in drinking water?
Indicates potential microbial contamination, interferes with disinfection
What is the EPA limit for Turbidity?
The EPA Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for Turbidity is 1 NTU.
How can I remove Turbidity from my water?
Effective treatment methods for removing Turbidity include: Coagulation, Sedimentation, Filtration.
How do I test my water for Turbidity?
You can check your water system's annual Consumer Confidence Report for Turbidity levels, or use a certified home water testing kit. WaterQ provides the latest EPA test data for all public water systems.