Is Oberlin, LA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded B-, with 16 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
74.7/100
waterverge.com Oberlin, LA — Water Quality Report
Oberlin's drinking water received a grade of B- (74.7 out of 100), indicating fair water quality. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 5,760 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 1.4 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 44 violations on record, including 15 health-based violations. 16 remain unresolved.
What to know about Oberlin's water
Oberlin ranks #124 out of 309 cities in Louisiana for water quality, placing it mid-range in the state.
Oberlin 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.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Oberlin, LA water safe to drink?
Oberlin's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of B- (74.7/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 5,760 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Oberlin
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Oberlin's water quality assessment. Grade: B- (74.7/100).
1 health-based. Contaminants: TTHM.
1 health-based. Contaminants: TTHM.
Contaminants: Public Notice.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Oberlin's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Violation history
Oberlin's water system has 44 total violations on record, including 15 health-based violations. 16 remain unresolved. 5 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Where does Oberlin's water come from?
Oberlin's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 2 water systems serving approximately 5,760 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Bayou Nezpique Near Basile (river), Calcasieu River Near Oberlin (river), Ouiska Chitto Creek (river).
What Oberlin residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Oberlin'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.
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 droughtAllen Parish 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.
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. | 1.4 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how Oberlin compares by contaminant
Explore where Oberlin ranks among all Louisiana cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Oberlin's water comes from
Oberlin'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 5,760 people through 2 water systems.
Water bodies near Oberlin
Oberlin is located near 3 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Oberlin
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| EAST ALLEN PARISH WATER WORKS | LA1003011 | 3,030 | GW |
| TOWN OF OBERLIN WATER SYSTEM | LA1003007 | 2,730 | GW |
How Oberlin compares
Full Louisiana rankings →Oberlin's score of 74.7/100 is above the average of 53/100 among major Louisiana cities. It outscores 7 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Louisiana rankings →About Oberlin, LA
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Oberlin's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Allen Parish
Frequently asked questions
Is Oberlin, LA tap water safe to drink?
Oberlin's water quality earned a grade of B- (74.7/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #124 out of 309 cities tested in Louisiana.
What contaminants are in Oberlin's water?
Lead was measured at 1.4 ppb (90th percentile). 44 violations are on record.
How is Oberlin'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 Oberlin?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Oberlin's water come from?
Oberlin's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 2 water systems serving approximately 5,760 residents.
What health violations has Oberlin's water system had?
Oberlin 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. 16 violations remain unresolved.
Is Oberlin's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Oberlin 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 44 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 Oberlin's water compare to other cities?
Oberlin ranks #124 out of 309 cities in Louisiana (better than 60% of state cities) and #9768 out of 15744 cities nationally (38th percentile). The grade of B- reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.