Is Dryden (T), NY 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 ↓
62.8/100
waterverge.com Dryden (T), NY — Water Quality Report
Dryden (T)'s drinking water received a grade of C (62.8 out of 100), indicating fair water quality. The city's 11 water systems serve approximately 1,854 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 1.2 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
The system has 73 violations on record, including 0 health-based violations. 15 remain unresolved.
What to know about Dryden (T)'s water
Dryden (T) ranks #744 out of 855 cities in New York for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Dryden (T) 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.
As a small community water system, Dryden (T) may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 31 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Dryden (T), NY water safe to drink?
Dryden (T)'s drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of C (62.8/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 11 water systems serve approximately 1,854 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Dryden (T)
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Dryden (T)'s water quality assessment. Grade: C (62.8/100).
Contaminants: LEAD AND COPPER RULE REVISIONS.
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4348). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3351). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Dryden (T)'s water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Violation history
Dryden (T)'s water system has 73 total violations on record, including 0 health-based violations. 15 remain unresolved. 31 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Monroe County has experienced 6 federally declared disasters since 1972. 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 Erie(Barge)Canal(W Of Genesee R)At Rochester, Northrup Creek, Round Pond Creek, Genesee R, Red Creek Below Co Hwy 85.
Where does Dryden (T)'s water come from?
Dryden (T)'s drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 11 water systems serving approximately 1,854 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Erie(Barge)Canal(W Of Genesee R)At Rochester (river), Northrup Creek (river), Round Pond Creek (river), Genesee R (river), Red Creek Below Co Hwy 85 (river).
What Dryden (T) residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Dryden (T)'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.
Dryden (T)'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
Flood & disaster history
Monroe County has experienced 6 federally declared disasters since 1972. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Dryden (T)'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. | 1.2 | 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. | 2.36 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 2.360 mg/L (2006)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Dryden (T) compares by contaminant
Explore where Dryden (T) ranks among all New York cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Dryden (T)'s water comes from
Dryden (T)'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 1,854 people through 11 water systems.
Water bodies near Dryden (T)
Dryden (T) is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Dryden (T)
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| HANSHAW VILLAGE MHP | NY5405832 | 447 | GW |
| ITHACA ESTATES | NY5405800 | 342 | GW |
| LITTLE CREEK MHP | NY5405827 | 252 | GW |
| YELLOW BARN WD | NY5404425 | 250 | GW |
| PLEASANT VIEW MHP | NY5405826 | 125 | GW |
| COUNTRY GARDENS APARTMENTS | NY5405825 | 110 | GW |
| CREEKWOOD APARTMENTS | NY5410468 | 110 | GW |
| FALL CREEK PARK | NY5405809 | 90 | GU |
| DEIBLER APARTMENTS | NY5421759 | 46 | GW |
| BROOKVIEW APARTMENTS | NY5405820 | 45 | GW |
| HILLSIDE APTS | NY5417118 | 37 | GW |
How Dryden (T) compares
Full New York rankings →Dryden (T)'s score of 62.8/100 is below the average of 74/100 among major New York cities. It outscores 2 of 10 nearby cities. 8 of 10 nearby cities score higher.
Nearby cities
View New York rankings →About Dryden (T), NY
Wikipedia →Rochester is a city in and the county seat of Monroe County, New York, United States. It is the fourth-most populous city in New York, with a population of 211,328 at the 2020 census. The Rochester metropolitan area in Western New York has an estimated 1.06 million residents and is the 54th-largest metropolitan area in the U.S. Throughout its history, Rochester has acquired several nicknames based on local industries; it has been known as "the Flour City" and "the Flower City" for its dual role in flour production and floriculture, and as the "World's Image Center" for its association with film, optics, and photography.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Dryden (T)'s water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Tompkins
Frequently asked questions
Is Dryden (T), NY tap water safe to drink?
Dryden (T)'s water quality earned a grade of C (62.8/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #744 out of 855 cities tested in New York.
What contaminants are in Dryden (T)'s water?
Lead was measured at 1.2 ppb (90th percentile). 73 violations are on record.
How is Dryden (T)'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 Dryden (T)?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Dryden (T)'s water come from?
Dryden (T)'s water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 11 water systems serving approximately 1,854 residents.
Is Dryden (T)'s groundwater at risk of contamination?
Dryden (T) 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 73 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 Dryden (T)'s water compare to other cities?
Dryden (T) ranks #744 out of 855 cities in New York (better than 13% of state cities) and #11841 out of 15744 cities nationally (25th percentile). The grade of C reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.