Tap Water Safety Report for Fort Dodge, Iowa
Fort Dodge, Iowa tap water scored 68/100 (C+) based on EPA data. While the water meets minimum EPA standards, 2 contaminant(s) are at elevated levels worth monitoring.
Overall Score
68/100
Grade: C+
Contaminants Tested
10
All within limits
EPA Violations
2
All resolved
Water Source
mixed
Mixed sources
Population Served
21,031
residents
Water Systems
1
serving this area
2 contaminant(s) are approaching EPA limits and should be monitored.
Detected level
51.9193 ug/L
65% of EPA limit
Health effects: Disinfection byproducts linked to increased risk of bladder cancer and reproductive issues with long-term exposure.
Detected level
0.7656 mg/L
59% of EPA limit
Health effects: Can cause gastrointestinal distress at high levels. Long-term exposure may damage the liver and kidneys.
Based on Fort Dodge's water quality data, here are our specific recommendations:
With 2 contaminant(s) at elevated levels, a certified pitcher or faucet filter provides an affordable layer of protection. Look for NSF/ANSI certification.
City water reports reflect water leaving the treatment plant. Your home pipes may add contaminants, especially in older buildings. Test at the tap for the most accurate picture.
How contaminant levels compare to EPA limits (50% of overall score)
EPA violation history and enforcement actions (30% of overall score)
Water system infrastructure and source quality (20% of overall score)
Fort Dodge's water scored 68/100 with 2 contaminant(s) at elevated levels. Children are more vulnerable to water contaminants due to their lower body weight and developing systems. We recommend using a certified water filter for any water used for baby formula, cooking for children, or children's drinking water. A pitcher filter with NSF certification is an affordable first step.
Fort Dodge's water has been tested for 10 contaminants. None currently exceed EPA maximum contaminant levels. The most notable detections include: Total Trihalomethanes (51.9193 ug/L, EPA limit: 80 ug/L — 65% of limit); Copper (0.7656 mg/L, EPA limit: 1.3 mg/L — 59% of limit); Nitrite (0.4946 mg/L, EPA limit: 1 mg/L — 50% of limit); Chromium (0.0479 mg/L, EPA limit: 0.1 mg/L — 48% of limit); Nitrate (4.1065 mg/L, EPA limit: 10 mg/L — 41% of limit). The water system has no active EPA violations. Water quality can vary seasonally and by neighborhood, so home testing provides the most accurate picture for your specific tap.
Yes, we recommend filtering your water in Fort Dodge. With a score of 68/100 and 2 contaminant(s) at elevated levels, a certified water filter adds a meaningful layer of protection. A faucet-mounted or pitcher filter with NSF/ANSI 53 certification is a good starting point. For more thorough contaminant removal, consider an under-sink reverse osmosis system, especially if you have specific concerns about Total Trihalomethanes.
Fort Dodge's water quality score of 68/100 (C+) is 4 points below the national average of 72. The city's water comes from a mix of groundwater and surface water sources. While the water meets minimum federal standards, there is room for improvement compared to top-performing cities. You can see how Fort Dodge compares to nearby cities in our state rankings.
Detailed contaminant data, violation history, and water system information for Fort Dodge.
Find the best water filter for Fort Dodge based on detected contaminants and your budget.
See how Fort Dodge compares to other cities across Iowa.
See how Fort Dodge ranks among all cities in the US for water quality.
Data Disclaimer
This report is based on publicly available EPA data and water quality test results. Water quality can vary by neighborhood, building age, and season. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional water testing. If you have specific health concerns about your water, contact your local water utility or a certified water testing laboratory. Last data update: February 2, 2026.