Is Jemez Springs, NM Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded F, with 92 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
42.5/100
waterverge.com Jemez Springs, NM — Water Quality Report
Jemez Springs's drinking water received a grade of F (42.5 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 3 water systems serve approximately 1,783 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 6.8 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 354 violations on record, including 69 health-based violations. 92 remain unresolved.
What to know about Jemez Springs's water
Jemez Springs ranks #129 out of 163 cities in New Mexico for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Jemez Springs 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, Jemez Springs may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 17 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Jemez Springs, NM water safe to drink?
Jemez Springs's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (42.5/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 3 water systems serve approximately 1,783 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Jemez Springs
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Jemez Springs's water quality assessment. Grade: F (42.5/100).
1 health-based. Contaminants: Arsenic, Consumer Confidence Rule.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Arsenic, Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: Groundwater Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4152). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4079). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Jemez Springs'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
Jemez Springs's water system has 354 total violations on record, including 69 health-based violations. 92 remain unresolved. 17 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Sandoval County has experienced 5 federally declared disasters since 1973. 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 Jemez River, Vallecito Creek.
Where does Jemez Springs's water come from?
Jemez Springs's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 3 water systems serving approximately 1,783 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Jemez River (river), Vallecito Creek (river).
What Jemez Springs residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Jemez Springs'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.
Jemez Springs'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
D3 — extreme droughtSandoval County is currently in D3 (extreme 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
Sandoval County has experienced 5 federally declared disasters since 1973. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Jemez Springs'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. | 6.8 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how Jemez Springs compares by contaminant
Explore where Jemez Springs ranks among all New Mexico cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Jemez Springs's water comes from
Jemez Springs'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 1,783 people through 3 water systems.
Water bodies near Jemez Springs
Jemez Springs is located near 2 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Jemez Springs
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| JEMEZ SPRINGS DWUA | NM3509123 | 1,385 | GW |
| SIERRA LOS PINOS HOA | NM3565423 | 300 | GW |
| HOFHEINS/MARCEL THOMAS ASSOC COOP INC | NM3576623 | 98 | GW |
How Jemez Springs compares
Full New Mexico rankings →Jemez Springs's score of 42.5/100 is on par with the average of 44/100 among major New Mexico cities. It outscores 7 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View New Mexico rankings →About Jemez Springs, NM
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Jemez Springs's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Sandoval
Frequently asked questions
Is Jemez Springs, NM tap water safe to drink?
Jemez Springs's water quality earned a grade of F (42.5/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #129 out of 163 cities tested in New Mexico.
What contaminants are in Jemez Springs's water?
Lead was measured at 6.8 ppb (90th percentile). 354 violations are on record.
How is Jemez Springs'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 Jemez Springs?
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 Jemez Springs's water come from?
Jemez Springs's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 3 water systems serving approximately 1,783 residents.
What health violations has Jemez Springs's water system had?
Jemez Springs has 69 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in October 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 92 violations remain unresolved.
Is Jemez Springs's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Jemez Springs 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 354 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 Jemez Springs's water compare to other cities?
Jemez Springs ranks #129 out of 163 cities in New Mexico (better than 21% of state cities) and #14804 out of 15744 cities nationally (6th percentile). The grade of F reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.