Is Elkader, IA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded B+, with 3 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
82.6/100
waterverge.com Elkader, IA — Water Quality Report
Elkader's drinking water received a grade of B+ (82.6 out of 100), indicating good water quality. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 1,246 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 14.0 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 36 violations on record, including 0 health-based violations. 3 remain unresolved.
What to know about Elkader's water
Elkader ranks #377 out of 436 cities in Iowa for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Elkader 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, Elkader may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Elkader, IA water safe to drink?
Elkader's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of B+ (82.6/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 1,246 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Elkader
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Elkader's water quality assessment. Grade: B+ (82.6/100).
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4732). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4421). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: Coliform (TCR).
Contaminants: Coliform (TCR).
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Elkader'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.
Violation history
Elkader's water system has 36 total violations on record, including 0 health-based violations. 3 remain unresolved.
Flood & environmental risk
Clayton County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1990. 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 Turkey River Above French Hollow Cr At Elkader, Volga River At Littleport, Turkey River At Garber.
Where does Elkader's water come from?
Elkader's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 2 water systems serving approximately 1,246 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Turkey River Above French Hollow Cr At Elkader (river), Volga River At Littleport (river), Turkey River At Garber (river).
What Elkader residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Elkader'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.
Elkader'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
Clayton County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1990. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Elkader'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. | 14.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Near Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how Elkader compares by contaminant
Explore where Elkader ranks among all Iowa cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Elkader's water comes from
Elkader'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 1,246 people through 2 water systems.
Water bodies near Elkader
Elkader is located near 3 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Elkader
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| ELKADER MUNI WATER DEPT | IA2223011 | 1,219 | GW |
| SCENIC ACRES | IA2200901 | 27 | GW |
How Elkader compares
Full Iowa rankings →Elkader's score of 82.6/100 is above the average of 72/100 among major Iowa cities. It outscores 7 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Iowa rankings →About Elkader, IA
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Elkader's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Clayton
Frequently asked questions
Is Elkader, IA tap water safe to drink?
Elkader's water quality earned a grade of B+ (82.6/100). The water generally meets EPA standards and is considered safe for consumption. The city ranks #377 out of 436 cities tested in Iowa.
What contaminants are in Elkader's water?
Lead was measured at 14.0 ppb (90th percentile). 36 violations are on record.
How is Elkader'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 Elkader?
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 Elkader's water come from?
Elkader's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 2 water systems serving approximately 1,246 residents.
Is Elkader's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Elkader 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 36 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 Elkader's water compare to other cities?
Elkader ranks #377 out of 436 cities in Iowa (better than 14% of state cities) and #6880 out of 15744 cities nationally (56th percentile). The grade of B+ reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.