Is Nora Springs, IA 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 ↓
84.5/100
waterverge.com Nora Springs, IA — Water Quality Report
Nora Springs's drinking water received a grade of B+ (84.5 out of 100), indicating good water quality. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 1,369 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 6.0 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 3 violations on record, including 1 health-based violation. 2 remain unresolved.
What to know about Nora Springs's water
Nora Springs ranks #358 out of 436 cities in Iowa for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Nora 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, Nora Springs may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Nora Springs, IA water safe to drink?
Nora Springs's tap water meets most EPA standards but has areas that warrant attention. With a grade of B+ (84.5/100), some contaminant levels or compliance issues suggest that residents may benefit from additional filtration. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 1,369 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Nora Springs
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Nora Springs's water quality assessment. Grade: B+ (84.5/100).
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4421). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3239). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Barium.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Nora 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
Nora Springs's water system has 3 total violations on record, including 1 health-based violation. 2 remain unresolved.
Flood & environmental risk
Worth County has experienced 6 federally declared disasters since 1965. 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 Spring Creek Near Mason City, Winnebago River At Mason City, Willow Creek Near Mason City.
Where does Nora Springs's water come from?
Nora Springs's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 1 water system serving approximately 1,369 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Spring Creek Near Mason City (river), Winnebago River At Mason City (river), Willow Creek Near Mason City (river).
What Nora Springs 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.
Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking, especially in the morning. Lead and copper leach from household plumbing when water sits in pipes.
Nora 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
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Nora Springs
Superfund sites nearby
Federally tracked hazardous-waste sites on the EPA National Priorities List. Proximity does not necessarily indicate tap-water contamination — the connection depends on hydrology and treatment.
- MASON CITY COAL GASIFICATION PLANT9.6 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Flood & disaster history
Worth County has experienced 6 federally declared disasters since 1965. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Nora 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. | 6.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how Nora Springs compares by contaminant
Explore where Nora Springs ranks among all Iowa cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Nora Springs's water comes from
Nora 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 1,369 people through 1 water system.
Water bodies near Nora Springs
Nora Springs is located near 3 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Nora Springs
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| NORA SPRINGS WATER SUPPLY | IA3423069 | 1,369 | GW |
How Nora Springs compares
Full Iowa rankings →Nora Springs's score of 84.5/100 is above the average of 72/100 among major Iowa cities. It outscores 8 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Iowa rankings →About Nora Springs, IA
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Nora Springs's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Floyd
Frequently asked questions
Is Nora Springs, IA tap water safe to drink?
Nora Springs's water quality earned a grade of B+ (84.5/100). The water generally meets EPA standards and is considered safe for consumption. The city ranks #358 out of 436 cities tested in Iowa.
What contaminants are in Nora Springs's water?
Lead was measured at 6.0 ppb (90th percentile). 3 violations are on record.
How is Nora 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 Nora 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 Nora Springs's water come from?
Nora Springs's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 1 water system serving approximately 1,369 residents.
What health violations has Nora Springs's water system had?
Nora Springs has 1 health-based violation on record. The most recent violation was recorded in October 1999. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 2 violations remain unresolved.
Is Nora Springs's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Nora 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 3 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 Nora Springs's water compare to other cities?
Nora Springs ranks #358 out of 436 cities in Iowa (better than 18% of state cities) and #5872 out of 15744 cities nationally (63th percentile). The grade of B+ reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.
Does Nora Springs's small water system affect quality?
Nora Springs's system serves approximately 1,369 residents. Small community water systems (under 3,300 people) may have fewer financial resources for infrastructure upgrades and advanced treatment technologies. However, they are held to the same EPA drinking water standards as larger systems. This system has 3 violations on record.