Is Fernwood, ID Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded B, with 2 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
75.9/100
waterverge.com Fernwood, ID — Water Quality Report
Fernwood's drinking water received a grade of B (75.9 out of 100), indicating good water quality. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 645 residents using 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 162 violations on record, including 103 health-based violations. 2 remain unresolved.
What to know about Fernwood's water
Fernwood ranks #64 out of 139 cities in Idaho 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, Fernwood may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Fernwood, ID water safe to drink?
Fernwood's tap water meets most EPA standards but has areas that warrant attention. With a grade of B (75.9/100), some contaminant levels or compliance issues suggest that residents may benefit from additional filtration. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 645 residents using surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs).
Recent water quality updates for Fernwood
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Fernwood's water quality assessment. Grade: B (75.9/100).
Contaminants: Chlorine.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Surface Water Treatment Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4313). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: Coliform (TCR).
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3244). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Fernwood's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Violation history
Fernwood's water system has 162 total violations on record, including 103 health-based violations. 2 remain unresolved. 1 violation was issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Benewah County has experienced 4 federally declared disasters since 1964. 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 St Maries River Nr Santa.
Where does Fernwood's water come from?
Fernwood's drinking water comes from surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs), supplied by 2 water systems serving approximately 645 people. Surface water sources are more susceptible to contamination from runoff, industrial discharge, and algal blooms, requiring extensive treatment. Nearby water bodies include St Maries River Nr Santa (river).
What Fernwood 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.
Fernwood'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
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtBenewah County is currently in D2 (severe 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
Benewah County has experienced 4 federally declared disasters since 1964. 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 Fernwood compares by contaminant
Explore where Fernwood ranks among all Idaho cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Fernwood's water comes from
Fernwood'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 public/private ownership and serves approximately 645 people through 2 water systems.
Water bodies near Fernwood
Fernwood 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 Fernwood
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| FERNWOOD WATER DIST | ID1050011 | 495 | SW |
| SANTA WATER AND SEWER DIST | ID1050023 | 150 | GW |
How Fernwood compares
Full Idaho rankings →Fernwood's score of 75.9/100 is above the average of 43/100 among major Idaho cities. It outscores 10 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Idaho rankings →Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Fernwood's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Benewah
Frequently asked questions
Is Fernwood, ID tap water safe to drink?
Fernwood's water quality earned a grade of B (75.9/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #64 out of 139 cities tested in Idaho.
What contaminants are in Fernwood's water?
Lead was measured at 1.0 ppb (90th percentile). 162 violations are on record.
How is Fernwood'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 Fernwood?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Fernwood's water come from?
Fernwood's water is sourced from Surface water. The city has 2 water systems serving approximately 645 residents.
What health violations has Fernwood's water system had?
Fernwood has 103 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in January 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 2 violations remain unresolved.
How does Fernwood's water compare to other cities?
Fernwood ranks #64 out of 139 cities in Idaho (better than 54% of state cities) and #9459 out of 15744 cities nationally (40th percentile). The grade of B reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.