Is Kelso, WA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded F — but Copper and Chlorate were detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
43.5/100
waterverge.com Kelso, WA — Water Quality Report
Kelso's drinking water received a grade of F (43.5 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 7 water systems serve approximately 30,891 residents using ground water under influence.
Lead levels were measured at 1.5 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. PFAS testing under UCMR 5 found no detectable forever chemicals.
The system has 794 violations on record, including 15 health-based violations. 17 remain unresolved.
What to know about Kelso's water
Kelso ranks #261 out of 294 cities in Washington for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Kelso 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.
Hexavalent chromium (chromium-6) was detected at 0.14 µg/L in UCMR 3 testing. While below California's 10 µg/L limit and with no federal MCL set, residents sensitive to this contaminant may consider reverse osmosis filtration.
The system has seen 50 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Kelso, WA water safe to drink?
Kelso's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (43.5/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 7 water systems serve approximately 30,891 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Kelso
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Kelso's water quality assessment. Grade: F (43.5/100).
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: Surface Water Treatment Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4650). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4253). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Kelso'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
Kelso's water system has 794 total violations on record, including 15 health-based violations. 17 remain unresolved. 50 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Cowlitz County has experienced 10 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 Cowlitz River.
Where does Kelso's water come from?
Kelso's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 7 water systems serving approximately 30,891 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Cowlitz River (river).
What Kelso residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Kelso'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.
Kelso'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 ↓Forever chemicals overview
National PFAS report →Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Kelso
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Kelso, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 186,137 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
NIPPON DYNAWAVE PACKAGING CO. LONGVIEW, WA98632 | Manganese And Manganese Compounds | 116,866 | 4.1 mi |
WESTROCK LONGVIEW LLC LONGVIEW, WA98632 | Manganese compounds | 69,122 | 2.3 mi |
SOLVAY CHEMICALS INC LONGVIEW, WA98632 | Nitrate compounds (water dissociable; reportable only when in aqueous solution) | 77 | 4.7 mi |
LANXESS CORP KALAMA SITE KALAMA, WA98625 | Toluene | 71 | 6.8 mi |
INTERFOR LONGVIEW DIV LONGVIEW, WA98632 | Lead And Lead Compounds | 0 | 2.0 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Flood & disaster history
Cowlitz County has experienced 10 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 Kelso'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. | 1.5 | 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. | 2.96 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
| 11Cl-PF3OUdS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 4:2 FTS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 6:2 FTS 6:2 FTSPFAS A fluorotelomer sulfonate commonly found at sites contaminated with aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) used in firefighting. Health EffectsPotential liver toxicity and endocrine disruption. Less studied but identified as a contaminant of concern. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), airports, military bases, and industrial facilities. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 8:2 FTS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 9Cl-PF3ONS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| ADONA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| HFPO-DA HFPO-DA (GenX)PFAS A replacement for PFOA in manufacturing, marketed as safer but still a persistent "forever chemical." Also known as GenX. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, reproductive toxicity, immune system effects, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit10 ppt MCL Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing (used as PFOA replacement), industrial wastewater discharge. | ND | 0.01 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| lithium LithiumInorganic A naturally occurring alkali metal found in groundwater. Monitored under UCMR 5 to assess occurrence in drinking water. Health EffectsKidney effects at high doses. Low-level exposure effects under study; some research suggests neurological effects. EPA LimitNo MCL (monitoring only under UCMR 5) Common SourcesNatural mineral deposits, geothermal water, and industrial discharge. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NEtFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NFDHA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NMeFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFBA PFBAPFAS One of the shortest-chain PFAS compounds. Very mobile in water and difficult to remove with standard filtration. Health EffectsThyroid effects, potential developmental toxicity. Shorter half-life in body than long-chain PFAS. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and firefighting foam. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFBS PFBSPFAS A short-chain PFAS used as a replacement for PFOS. While it clears the body faster than long-chain PFAS, it still persists in the environment. Health EffectsThyroid effects, reproductive and developmental toxicity, kidney effects. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam, and as a replacement chemical in manufacturing. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFDA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFDoA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFEESA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHpA PFHpAPFAS A medium-chain PFAS compound found in various environmental samples. Less studied than PFOA/PFOS but still considered a contaminant of concern. Health EffectsLiver effects, potential developmental toxicity, and endocrine disruption. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and contaminated water sources. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHpS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHxA PFHxAPFAS A short-chain PFAS replacement chemical widely used after manufacturers phased out longer-chain PFAS. Very commonly detected in water. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, potential thyroid disruption. Considered less toxic than long-chain PFAS but still persistent. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial processes, firefighting foam (AFFF), food packaging, and textile treatment. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHxS PFHxSPFAS A medium-chain PFAS found in firefighting foam and consumer products. It has a long half-life in the human body, similar to long-chain PFAS. Health EffectsImmune system effects, thyroid disruption, and potential reproductive and developmental harm. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), waterproof textiles, food packaging, and industrial discharge. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFMBA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFMPA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFNA PFNAPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound used in manufacturing fluoropolymers. It bioaccumulates in the body and is very persistent in the environment. Health EffectsDevelopmental effects, liver toxicity, immune suppression, and potential cancer risk. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing, industrial emissions, and contaminated water sources. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFOA PFOAPFAS A long-chain PFAS ("forever chemical") once widely used in nonstick coatings and firefighting foam. It persists in the body and environment for years. Health EffectsLinked to kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, elevated cholesterol, and reproductive issues. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam (AFFF), nonstick cookware manufacturing, and contaminated groundwater. | ND | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFOS PFOSPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound historically used in stain-resistant coatings and firefighting foam. One of the most studied and persistent PFAS chemicals. Health EffectsLiver damage, immune system suppression, thyroid disruption, increased cholesterol, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), industrial sites, stain-resistant fabric treatments, and contaminated groundwater. | ND | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFPeA PFPeAPFAS A short-chain PFAS compound commonly detected in drinking water. One of the most frequently found PFAS in UCMR 5 monitoring. Health EffectsLess studied than PFOA/PFOS. Potential liver and thyroid effects. Research is ongoing. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam degradation, and consumer products. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFPeS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTrDA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFUnA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level trend (90th percentile)
See how Kelso compares by contaminant
Explore where Kelso ranks among all Washington cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Kelso's water comes from
Kelso'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 30,891 people through 7 water systems.
Water bodies near Kelso
Kelso is located near 1 notable water body. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Kelso
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| KELSO CITY OF | WA5338000 | 15,097 | GU |
| BEACON HILL WATER & SEWER DISTRICT | WA5315650 | 11,969 | GWP |
| TOUTLE COMMUNITY REGIONAL WATER | WA5388905 | 2,904 | SWP |
| RYDERWOOD IMPROVEMENT & SERVICE AS | WA5375100 | 434 | SW |
| LEWIS RIVER GOLF COURSE | WA5337105 | 300 | GW |
| CAMELOT SUBDIVISION | WA5310805 | 142 | GW |
| TOUTLE RIVER VIEW | WA5388920 | 45 | GW |
How Kelso compares
Full Washington rankings →Kelso's score of 43.5/100 is below the average of 53/100 among major Washington cities. It outscores 4 of 10 nearby cities. 6 of 10 nearby cities score higher.
Nearby cities
View Washington rankings →About Kelso, WA
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Kelso's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Cowlitz
Frequently asked questions
Is Kelso, WA tap water safe to drink?
Kelso's water quality earned a grade of F (43.5/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #261 out of 294 cities tested in Washington.
What contaminants are in Kelso's water?
Lead was measured at 1.5 ppb (90th percentile). No PFAS compounds were detected. 794 violations are on record.
How is Kelso'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 Kelso?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Kelso's water come from?
Kelso's water is sourced from Ground water under influence. The city has 7 water systems serving approximately 30,891 residents.
What health violations has Kelso's water system had?
Kelso has 15 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in October 2024. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 17 violations remain unresolved.
Is Kelso's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Kelso 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 794 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 Kelso's water compare to other cities?
Kelso ranks #261 out of 294 cities in Washington (better than 11% of state cities) and #14545 out of 15744 cities nationally (8th percentile). The grade of F reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.