Is East Tawas, MI Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded A-, with 3 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
85.3/100
waterverge.com East Tawas, MI — Water Quality Report
East Tawas's drinking water received a grade of A- (85.3 out of 100), indicating good water quality. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 2,809 residents using purchased surface water.
Lead levels were measured at 1.0 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 4 violations on record, including 0 health-based violations. 3 remain unresolved.
What to know about East Tawas's water
East Tawas ranks #237 out of 520 cities in Michigan for water quality, placing it mid-range in the state.
The city draws from surface water sources, which are more susceptible to seasonal runoff and agricultural contamination, requiring extensive multi-barrier treatment including coagulation, filtration, and disinfection.
As a small community water system, East Tawas may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is East Tawas, MI water safe to drink?
East Tawas's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of A- (85.3/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 2,809 residents using surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs).
Recent water quality updates for East Tawas
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into East Tawas's water quality assessment. Grade: A- (85.3/100).
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3225). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: Coliform (TCR).
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-744). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for East Tawas's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Violation history
East Tawas's water system has 4 total violations on record, including 0 health-based violations. 3 remain unresolved.
Flood & environmental risk
Iosco County has experienced 4 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 E Br Au Gres R.
Where does East Tawas's water come from?
East Tawas's drinking water comes from surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs), supplied by 2 water systems serving approximately 2,809 people. Surface water sources are more susceptible to contamination from runoff, industrial discharge, and algal blooms, requiring extensive treatment. Nearby water bodies include E Br Au Gres R (river).
What East Tawas residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in East Tawas'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.
East Tawas'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 East Tawas
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near East Tawas, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
TAWAS PLATING CO TAWAS CITY, MI48763 | — | — | 2.9 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Flood & disaster history
Iosco County has experienced 4 federally declared disasters since 1972. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
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 |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how East Tawas compares by contaminant
Explore where East Tawas ranks among all Michigan cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where East Tawas's water comes from
East Tawas's drinking water comes primarily from surface water sources such as rivers, lakes, or reservoirs.
Surface water systems require multi-stage treatment including coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection to meet EPA Safe Drinking Water Act standards.
These sources can be impacted by seasonal changes, stormwater runoff, upstream agriculture, and industrial discharge.
The system is operated by local government ownership and serves approximately 2,809 people through 2 water systems.
Water bodies near East Tawas
East Tawas is located near 1 notable water body. As a surface water system, these water bodies may directly influence the city's drinking water supply.
Water systems serving East Tawas
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| EAST TAWAS, CITY OF | MI0002010 | 2,808 | SWP |
| HURON SHORE REGIONAL UTILITY AUTHORITY | MI0003319 | 1 | SW |
How East Tawas compares
Full Michigan rankings →East Tawas's score of 85.3/100 is above the average of 70/100 among major Michigan cities. It outscores 7 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Michigan rankings →About East Tawas, MI
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to East Tawas's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Iosco
Frequently asked questions
Is East Tawas, MI tap water safe to drink?
East Tawas's water quality earned a grade of A- (85.3/100). The water generally meets EPA standards and is considered safe for consumption. The city ranks #237 out of 520 cities tested in Michigan.
What contaminants are in East Tawas's water?
Lead was measured at 1.0 ppb (90th percentile). 4 violations are on record.
How is East Tawas'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 East Tawas?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does East Tawas's water come from?
East Tawas's water is sourced from Purchased surface water. The city has 2 water systems serving approximately 2,809 residents.
How does East Tawas's water compare to other cities?
East Tawas ranks #237 out of 520 cities in Michigan (better than 54% of state cities) and #5385 out of 15744 cities nationally (66th percentile). The grade of A- reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.