Oregon drinking water comes from groundwater wells. Based on the most recent monitoring data, 19 contaminants have been detected in the water supply, including Lead, Nitrate, Copper, Radon, and 15 others. PFAS testing has been conducted with no detections. Water hardness is 325 mg/L (very hard), which can cause scale buildup in appliances and reduce soap effectiveness.
Contaminants detected in Oregon water
19 total
Detection does not necessarily mean unsafe levels. See individual reports for concentrations and EPA limits.
Oregon tap water meets EPA legal standards (Maximum Contaminant Levels). However, 5 contaminants are present above independent health guidelines, which are often stricter than legal limits. 19 contaminants have been detected in the water supply, including Lead, Nitrate, Copper, Radon, Radium. View the detailed report for each water system to see specific levels and how they compare to both legal limits and health guidelines.
What contaminants are in Oregon water?
Monitoring has detected 19 contaminants in Oregon's water supply: Lead, Nitrate, Copper, Radon, Radium, Uranium, Gross Alpha Radiation, Total Trihalomethanes, Haloacetic Acids (HAA5), Atrazine, Nickel, Selenium, Xylenes, Fluoride, Chromium (total), Barium, Ethylbenzene, Styrene, Toluene. 5 exceed health guidelines. See individual system reports for concentrations relative to EPA limits.
Does Oregon water have PFAS?
Oregon's water has been tested for PFAS compounds with no detections. Testing was conducted as part of the EPA's Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR5) program.
Is Oregon water hard?
Yes. Oregon water has a hardness of 325 mg/L (very hard). Hard water is not a health concern but can cause scale buildup in water heaters and appliances, reduce soap effectiveness, and leave mineral deposits. Water softeners or conditioning systems can address hardness.
Where does Oregon get its drinking water?
Oregon's drinking water comes from groundwater wells that draw from underground aquifers. The water is treated and tested according to Wisconsin DNR and EPA requirements before distribution. Oregon is served by 3 water systems, the largest being OREGON WATERWORKS (serving 11,200 people).
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