Is Dover, MA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded C — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
64.8/100
waterverge.com Dover, MA — Water Quality Report
Dover's drinking water received a grade of C (64.8 out of 100), indicating fair water quality. The city's 5 water systems serve approximately 2,280 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 6.7 ppb (90th percentile), which is within EPA limits but above recommended levels. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
The system has 98 violations on record, including 20 health-based violations. 25 remain unresolved.
What to know about Dover's water
Dover ranks #246 out of 280 cities in Massachusetts for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Dover 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.
While lead levels are within EPA limits, they are above the recommended 5 ppb threshold that health organizations consider ideal. A point-of-use filter adds an extra layer of protection.
As a small community water system, Dover may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 9 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Dover, MA water safe to drink?
Dover's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of C (64.8/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 5 water systems serve approximately 2,280 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Dover
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Dover's water quality assessment. Grade: C (64.8/100).
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4780). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: Public Notice.
Contaminants: Public Notice.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3599). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Dover's water supply.
Within EPA limits but above the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended level of 1 ppb. An NSF 53-certified filter provides additional protection.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Violation history
Dover's water system has 98 total violations on record, including 20 health-based violations. 25 remain unresolved. 9 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Worcester County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1991. 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 Blackstone River, W. Main St.,, Quinsigamond River, Blackstone River, Blackstone River, Rt 122 Bridge, French River.
Where does Dover's water come from?
Dover's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 5 water systems serving approximately 2,280 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Blackstone River, W. Main St., (river), Quinsigamond River (river), Blackstone River (river), Blackstone River, Rt 122 Bridge (river), French River (river).
What Dover residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Dover'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.
Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking, especially in the morning. Lead and copper leach from household plumbing when water sits in pipes.
Dover'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 ↓Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Dover
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Dover, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
KIDDE-FENWAL INC ASHLAND, MA01721 | — | — | 9.8 mi |
CENTURY-TYWOOD J3 CORP HOLLISTON, MA01746 | — | — | 7.9 mi |
USAG NATICK SSC NATICK, MA01760 | — | — | 5.5 mi |
DYNASOL INC CANTON, MA02021 | — | — | 10.0 mi |
SIKA CORP CANTON, MA02021 | — | — | 9.9 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Dover
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.
- NATICK LABORATORY ARMY RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT AND ENGINEERING CENTER5.7 mi
- LOWER NEPONSET RIVER7.4 mi
- BLACKBURN UNION PRIVILEGES7.5 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D1 — moderate droughtNorfolk 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
Worcester County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1991. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Dover'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. | 6.7 | 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. | 1.75 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 1.750 mg/L (2003)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Dover compares by contaminant
Explore where Dover ranks among all Massachusetts cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Dover's water comes from
Dover'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 private ownership and serves approximately 2,280 people through 5 water systems.
Water bodies near Dover
Dover is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Dover
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| AQUARION WATER COMPANY (DOVER) | MA3078006 | 1,922 | GW |
| GLEN RIDGE RESIDENTS TRUST | MA3078002 | 135 | GWP |
| AQUARION WATER CO. (SPRINGDALE FARMS) | MA3078008 | 126 | GW |
| MEADOWBROOK WATER TRUST | MA3078005 | 57 | GWP |
| OLD FARM ROAD WATER TRUST | MA3078001 | 40 | GW |
How Dover compares
Full Massachusetts rankings →Dover's score of 64.8/100 is below the average of 80/100 among major Massachusetts cities. It outscores 1 of 10 nearby cities. 9 of 10 nearby cities score higher.
Nearby cities
View Massachusetts rankings →About Dover, MA
Wikipedia →Millbury is a town in Worcester County, Massachusetts, United States. Located within Blackstone Valley, the population in Millbury was 13,831 at the 2020 United States census.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Dover's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Norfolk
Frequently asked questions
Is Dover, MA tap water safe to drink?
Dover's water quality earned a grade of C (64.8/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #246 out of 280 cities tested in Massachusetts.
What contaminants are in Dover's water?
Lead was measured at 6.7 ppb (90th percentile). 98 violations are on record.
How is Dover'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 Dover?
While lead levels are within EPA limits, a filter adds extra protection. Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Dover's water come from?
Dover's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 5 water systems serving approximately 2,280 residents.
What health violations has Dover's water system had?
Dover has 20 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in September 2024. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 25 violations remain unresolved.
Is Dover's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Dover 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 98 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 Dover's water compare to other cities?
Dover ranks #246 out of 280 cities in Massachusetts (better than 12% of state cities) and #11618 out of 15744 cities nationally (26th percentile). The grade of C reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.