Is Big Lake, MN Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded A — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
91.9/100
waterverge.com Big Lake, MN — Water Quality Report
Big Lake's drinking water received a grade of A (91.9 out of 100), indicating excellent water quality. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 12,413 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 1.0 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. UCMR 5 testing detected 2 PFAS compounds in the water supply.
The system has 6 violations on record, including 1 health-based violation. 1 remains unresolved.
What to know about Big Lake's water
Big Lake ranks #149 out of 466 cities in Minnesota for water quality, placing it mid-range in the state.
Big Lake relies on groundwater, which is generally less vulnerable to surface contamination but can be affected by naturally occurring minerals like arsenic and nitrate, as well as agricultural and industrial runoff.
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.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Big Lake, MN water safe to drink?
Big Lake's tap water meets most EPA standards but has areas that warrant attention. With a grade of A (91.9/100), some contaminant levels or compliance issues suggest that residents may benefit from additional filtration. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 12,413 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Big Lake
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 Big Lake's water quality assessment. Grade: A (91.9/100).
Contaminants: Coliform (TCR).
Contaminants: Chlorine.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3242). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Coliform (TCR).
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Big Lake's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
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.
PFAS "forever chemicals" detected
UCMR 5 testing found 2 PFAS compounds in Big Lake's water supply. PFAS are synthetic chemicals that persist indefinitely in the environment and the human body.
Violation history
Big Lake's water system has 6 total violations on record, including 1 health-based violation. 1 remain unresolved.
Flood & environmental risk
Sherburne County has experienced 5 federally declared disasters since 1965. 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 Elk River.
Where does Big Lake's water come from?
Big Lake's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 1 water system serving approximately 12,413 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Elk River (river).
What Big Lake residents can do
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.
Big Lake'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 Big Lake
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Big Lake, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
CHEMSTAR PRODUCTS CO CARLTON, MN55718 | — | — | 9.7 mi |
SAPPI CLOQUET LLC CLOQUET, MN55720 | — | — | 8.8 mi |
USG INTERIORS LLC CLOQUET, MN55720 | — | — | 7.6 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Flood & disaster history
Sherburne County has experienced 5 federally declared disasters since 1965. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Big Lake'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. | 1.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| Copper (90th percentile) CopperInorganic A metal that enters drinking water mainly through corrosion of copper plumbing. Small amounts are essential for health, but excess levels are harmful. Health EffectsGastrointestinal distress (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea) at short-term high levels; liver and kidney damage from long-term exposure. EPA Limit1.3 mg/L action level Common SourcesCorrosion of copper household plumbing, erosion of natural deposits. | 1.60 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
| 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. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not 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. | 0.015 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | 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. | 0.003 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | 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)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 1.600 mg/L (1993)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Big Lake compares by contaminant
Explore where Big Lake ranks among all Minnesota cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Big Lake's water comes from
Big Lake's drinking water is drawn from underground aquifers through wells.
Groundwater is naturally filtered through rock and soil layers, generally requiring less treatment than surface water. However, it can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and minerals.
Agricultural activity, septic systems, and industrial operations near well fields can introduce nitrates, pesticides, and volatile organic compounds.
The system is operated by local government ownership and serves approximately 12,413 people through 1 water system.
Water bodies near Big Lake
Big Lake is located near 1 notable water body. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Big Lake
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big Lake | MN1710002 | 12,413 | GW |
How Big Lake compares
Full Minnesota rankings →Big Lake's score of 91.9/100 is above the average of 82/100 among major Minnesota cities. It outscores 9 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Minnesota rankings →About Big Lake, MN
Wikipedia →Big Lake is a city in Sherburne County, Minnesota, United States. The population was 11,686 at the 2020 census.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Big Lake's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Sherburne
Frequently asked questions
Is Big Lake, MN tap water safe to drink?
Big Lake's water quality earned a grade of A (91.9/100). The water generally meets EPA standards and is considered safe for consumption. The city ranks #149 out of 466 cities tested in Minnesota.
What contaminants are in Big Lake's water?
Lead was measured at 1.0 ppb (90th percentile). 2 PFAS compounds were detected. 6 violations are on record.
How is Big Lake'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 Big Lake?
PFAS compounds have been detected. A filter with activated carbon can help reduce exposure.
Where does Big Lake's water come from?
Big Lake's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 1 water system serving approximately 12,413 residents.
What health violations has Big Lake's water system had?
Big Lake has 1 health-based violation on record. The most recent violation was recorded in March 2009. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 1 violation remains unresolved.
Is Big Lake's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Big Lake 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 6 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 Big Lake's water compare to other cities?
Big Lake ranks #149 out of 466 cities in Minnesota (better than 68% of state cities) and #1443 out of 15744 cities nationally (91th percentile). The grade of A reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.