Is Barstow, CA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded F, with 19 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
43.8/100
waterverge.com Barstow, CA — Water Quality Report
Barstow's drinking water received a grade of F (43.8 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 3 water systems serve approximately 1,364 residents using purchased ground water.
Lead levels were measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. UCMR 5 testing detected 1 PFAS compound in the water supply.
The system has 93 violations on record, including 66 health-based violations. 19 remain unresolved.
What to know about Barstow's water
Barstow ranks #649 out of 694 cities in California for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Barstow purchases its water from a regional wholesaler, meaning quality depends on both the supplier's treatment and the local distribution system's condition.
PFAS compounds were detected in testing, though levels remain within current EPA limits. Residents seeking extra precaution may consider an activated carbon or reverse osmosis filter.
As a small community water system, Barstow may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 40 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Barstow, CA water safe to drink?
Barstow's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (43.8/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 3 water systems serve approximately 1,364 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Barstow
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Detected at levels within current EPA limits. PFAS persist indefinitely in the environment.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Barstow's water quality assessment. Grade: F (43.8/100).
Contaminants: Public Notice.
2 health-based. Contaminants: Arsenic.
2 health-based. Contaminants: Arsenic, Consumer Confidence Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3592). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Barstow's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Detected but within current EPA limits. PFAS do not break down in the environment and can accumulate in the body over time. An activated carbon filter can reduce exposure.
Violation history
Barstow's water system has 93 total violations on record, including 66 health-based violations. 19 remain unresolved. 40 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
San Bernardino County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1980. Flooding and severe storms can overwhelm water treatment plants, cause sewage overflows, and introduce agricultural runoff, bacteria, and sediment into drinking water supplies. Local water sources include Mojave R A Barstow, Mojave R A Daggett.
Where does Barstow's water come from?
Barstow's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 3 water systems serving approximately 1,364 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Mojave R A Barstow (river), Mojave R A Daggett (river).
What Barstow residents can do
Recommended: Activated carbon or reverse osmosis filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Barstow's water.
Your water utility is required to publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) with detailed testing results. Ask for the latest copy or check your utility's website.
Barstow's area has a history of flooding. After severe weather, watch for boil water advisories from your local utility.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Forever chemicals overview
National PFAS report →Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Barstow
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Barstow, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
U.S. MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE BARSTOW NEBO RANGE BARSTOW, CA92311 | — | — | 1.7 mi |
MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE BARSTOW YERMO ANNEX BARSTOW, CA92311 | — | — | 1.7 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Barstow
Superfund sites nearby
Federally tracked hazardous-waste sites on the EPA National Priorities List. Proximity does not necessarily indicate tap-water contamination — the connection depends on hydrology and treatment.
- BARSTOW MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE6.0 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D1 — moderate droughtSan Bernardino County is currently in D1 (moderate drought) per the U.S. Drought Monitor (week of May 5, 2026). Drought can elevate disinfection-byproduct (TTHM/HAA5) levels and taste/odor issues as utilities draw from lower reservoirs.
Source: U.S. Drought Monitor, updated weekly by NDMC, USDA, and NOAA.
Flood & disaster history
San Bernardino County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1980. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Barstow's water supply, we recommend the following filter types.
Full contaminants report
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA Limit | Unit | Category | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead (90th percentile) LeadHeavy Metal A toxic heavy metal that can leach into drinking water from older pipes, solder, and fixtures. No amount of lead in water is considered safe. Health EffectsBrain and nervous system damage in children, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and reproductive problems in adults. EPA Limit15 ppb action level Common SourcesCorrosion of lead pipes, lead solder, brass faucets, and household plumbing. | 0.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| 11Cl-PF3OUdS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 4:2 FTS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 6:2 FTS 6:2 FTSPFAS A fluorotelomer sulfonate commonly found at sites contaminated with aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) used in firefighting. Health EffectsPotential liver toxicity and endocrine disruption. Less studied but identified as a contaminant of concern. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), airports, military bases, and industrial facilities. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 8:2 FTS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 9Cl-PF3ONS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| ADONA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| HFPO-DA HFPO-DA (GenX)PFAS A replacement for PFOA in manufacturing, marketed as safer but still a persistent "forever chemical." Also known as GenX. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, reproductive toxicity, immune system effects, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit10 ppt MCL Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing (used as PFOA replacement), industrial wastewater discharge. | ND | 0.01 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| lithium LithiumInorganic A naturally occurring alkali metal found in groundwater. Monitored under UCMR 5 to assess occurrence in drinking water. Health EffectsKidney effects at high doses. Low-level exposure effects under study; some research suggests neurological effects. EPA LimitNo MCL (monitoring only under UCMR 5) Common SourcesNatural mineral deposits, geothermal water, and industrial discharge. | 79.000 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| NEtFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NFDHA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NMeFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFBA PFBAPFAS One of the shortest-chain PFAS compounds. Very mobile in water and difficult to remove with standard filtration. Health EffectsThyroid effects, potential developmental toxicity. Shorter half-life in body than long-chain PFAS. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and firefighting foam. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFBS PFBSPFAS A short-chain PFAS used as a replacement for PFOS. While it clears the body faster than long-chain PFAS, it still persists in the environment. Health EffectsThyroid effects, reproductive and developmental toxicity, kidney effects. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam, and as a replacement chemical in manufacturing. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFDA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFDoA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFEESA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHpA PFHpAPFAS A medium-chain PFAS compound found in various environmental samples. Less studied than PFOA/PFOS but still considered a contaminant of concern. Health EffectsLiver effects, potential developmental toxicity, and endocrine disruption. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and contaminated water sources. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHpS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHxA PFHxAPFAS A short-chain PFAS replacement chemical widely used after manufacturers phased out longer-chain PFAS. Very commonly detected in water. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, potential thyroid disruption. Considered less toxic than long-chain PFAS but still persistent. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial processes, firefighting foam (AFFF), food packaging, and textile treatment. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHxS PFHxSPFAS A medium-chain PFAS found in firefighting foam and consumer products. It has a long half-life in the human body, similar to long-chain PFAS. Health EffectsImmune system effects, thyroid disruption, and potential reproductive and developmental harm. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), waterproof textiles, food packaging, and industrial discharge. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFMBA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFMPA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFNA PFNAPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound used in manufacturing fluoropolymers. It bioaccumulates in the body and is very persistent in the environment. Health EffectsDevelopmental effects, liver toxicity, immune suppression, and potential cancer risk. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing, industrial emissions, and contaminated water sources. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFOA PFOAPFAS A long-chain PFAS ("forever chemical") once widely used in nonstick coatings and firefighting foam. It persists in the body and environment for years. Health EffectsLinked to kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, elevated cholesterol, and reproductive issues. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam (AFFF), nonstick cookware manufacturing, and contaminated groundwater. | ND | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFOS PFOSPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound historically used in stain-resistant coatings and firefighting foam. One of the most studied and persistent PFAS chemicals. Health EffectsLiver damage, immune system suppression, thyroid disruption, increased cholesterol, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), industrial sites, stain-resistant fabric treatments, and contaminated groundwater. | ND | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFPeA PFPeAPFAS A short-chain PFAS compound commonly detected in drinking water. One of the most frequently found PFAS in UCMR 5 monitoring. Health EffectsLess studied than PFOA/PFOS. Potential liver and thyroid effects. Research is ongoing. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam degradation, and consumer products. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFPeS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTrDA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFUnA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how Barstow compares by contaminant
Explore where Barstow ranks among all California cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Barstow's water comes from
Barstow purchases its water supply from a regional wholesale provider rather than treating raw water directly.
Water quality depends on both the wholesaler's treatment standards and the condition of Barstow's local distribution pipes and storage facilities.
Purchased water systems are common in suburban areas and smaller communities that lack the infrastructure for independent treatment.
The system is operated by federal ownership and serves approximately 1,364 people through 3 water systems.
Water bodies near Barstow
Barstow is located near 2 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Barstow
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| USMC NEBO (BARSTOW) | CA3610701 | 1,126 | GWP |
| BAR-LEN MWC | CA3600025 | 126 | GW |
| HI DESERT MWC | CA3600123 | 112 | GW |
How Barstow compares
Full California rankings →Barstow's score of 43.8/100 is below the average of 57/100 among major California cities. It outscores 5 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View California rankings →About Barstow, CA
Wikipedia →Barstow is a city in San Bernardino County, California, in the Mojave Desert of Southern California. Located in the Inland Empire region of California, the population was 25,415 at the 2020 census. Barstow is an important crossroads for the Inland Empire and home to Marine Corps Logistics Base Barstow.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Barstow's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across San Bernardino
Frequently asked questions
Is Barstow, CA tap water safe to drink?
Barstow's water quality earned a grade of F (43.8/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #649 out of 694 cities tested in California.
What contaminants are in Barstow's water?
Lead was measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile). 1 PFAS compound was detected. 93 violations are on record.
How is Barstow's water quality grade calculated?
The grade is based on four factors: violation history (40%), lead and copper levels (25%), PFAS contamination (25%), and regulatory compliance (10%). The score is also adjusted based on how complete the available data is. See our methodology page for full details.
Do I need a water filter in Barstow?
PFAS compounds have been detected. A filter with activated carbon can help reduce exposure.
Where does Barstow's water come from?
Barstow's water is sourced from Purchased ground water. The city has 3 water systems serving approximately 1,364 residents.
What health violations has Barstow's water system had?
Barstow has 66 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in December 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 19 violations remain unresolved.
Is Barstow's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Barstow uses groundwater, which can be affected by naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate, as well as agricultural runoff and industrial activity. The system has 93 violations on record that may relate to groundwater quality. Groundwater systems are generally less susceptible to surface contamination but should be monitored for emerging contaminants like PFAS.
How does Barstow's water compare to other cities?
Barstow ranks #649 out of 694 cities in California (better than 6% of state cities) and #14526 out of 15744 cities nationally (8th percentile). The grade of F reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.