Is Patterson (T), NY Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded C- — 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 ↓
59.5/100
waterverge.com Patterson (T), NY — Water Quality Report
Patterson (T)'s drinking water received a grade of C- (59.5 out of 100), indicating poor water quality. The city's 16 water systems serve approximately 3,939 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 263 violations on record, including 12 health-based violations. 22 remain unresolved.
What to know about Patterson (T)'s water
Patterson (T) ranks #753 out of 855 cities in New York for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Patterson (T) 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.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Patterson (T), NY water safe to drink?
Patterson (T)'s drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of C- (59.5/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 16 water systems serve approximately 3,939 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Patterson (T)
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Patterson (T)'s water quality assessment. Grade: C- (59.5/100).
2 health-based. Contaminants: LEAD AND COPPER RULE REVISIONS.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4615). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3572). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Patterson (T)'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.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Violation history
Patterson (T)'s water system has 263 total violations on record, including 12 health-based violations. 22 remain unresolved. 4 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Putnam County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1999. 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 Tenmile River, Housatonic River, East Branch Croton River, W Br Croton River Below Dam, Horse Pound Brook.
Where does Patterson (T)'s water come from?
Patterson (T)'s drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 16 water systems serving approximately 3,939 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Tenmile River (river), Housatonic River (river), East Branch Croton River (river), W Br Croton River Below Dam (river), Horse Pound Brook (river).
What Patterson (T) residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Patterson (T)'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.
Patterson (T)'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
D1 — moderate droughtPutnam County is currently in D1 (moderate 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
Putnam County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1999. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Patterson (T)'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 |
| 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. | 1.36 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level trend (90th percentile)
See how Patterson (T) compares by contaminant
Explore where Patterson (T) ranks among all New York cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Patterson (T)'s water comes from
Patterson (T)'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 private ownership and serves approximately 3,939 people through 16 water systems.
Water bodies near Patterson (T)
Patterson (T) is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Patterson (T)
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| WATCHTOWER BIBLE TRACT SOCIETY | NY3921721 | 1,251 | GW |
| GREEN CHIMNEYS: MAIN WELL | NY3921720 | 500 | GW |
| FOX RUN CONDOMINIUMS | NY3903711 | 475 | GW |
| MISTY HILLS WATER SYSTEM | NY3920886 | 315 | GW |
| CORNWALL MEADOWS TOWNHOMES W.S. | NY3922190 | 230 | GW |
| ALPINE ACRES WATER DISTRICT | NY3905706 | 222 | GW |
| WOODED HILLS MOBILE HOME PARK | NY3901311 | 155 | GW |
| PATTERSON VILLAGE CONDOMINIUMS | NY3903716 | 146 | GW |
| PLAZA AT CLOVER LAKE | NY3920080 | 120 | GW |
| COVINGTON GREEN CONDOMINIUM | NY3921710 | 120 | GW |
| TWIN BROOK MANOR CONDOMINIUM | NY3921641 | 103 | GW |
| DORSET HOLLOW | NY3920091 | 93 | GW |
| HARMONY TRAILER COURT | NY3901356 | 72 | GW |
| QUAIL RIDGE WATER WORKS CORP. | NY3925000 | 60 | GW |
| MEADOWBROOK FARM | NY3930002 | 54 | GW |
| RABOLDSHAUSEN ESTATES | NY3921009 | 23 | GW |
How Patterson (T) compares
Full New York rankings →Patterson (T)'s score of 59.5/100 is below the average of 74/100 among major New York cities. It outscores 1 of 10 nearby cities. 9 of 10 nearby cities score higher.
Nearby cities
View New York rankings →About Patterson (T), NY
Wikipedia →Patterson is a town in Putnam County, New York, United States. The town is in the northeastern part of the county and Interstate 84 passes through its southwestern section. The population was 11,541 at the 2020 census. The town is named after farmer Matthew Paterson. The original name was spelled “Paterson,” but was changed to its current spelling in the mid-19th century, reportedly because mail delivery confusion with Paterson, New Jersey.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Patterson (T)'s water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Putnam
Frequently asked questions
Is Patterson (T), NY tap water safe to drink?
Patterson (T)'s water quality earned a grade of C- (59.5/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #753 out of 855 cities tested in New York.
What contaminants are in Patterson (T)'s water?
Lead was measured at 6.0 ppb (90th percentile). 263 violations are on record.
How is Patterson (T)'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 Patterson (T)?
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 Patterson (T)'s water come from?
Patterson (T)'s water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 16 water systems serving approximately 3,939 residents.
What health violations has Patterson (T)'s water system had?
Patterson (T) has 12 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. 22 violations remain unresolved.
Is Patterson (T)'s groundwater at risk of contamination?
Patterson (T) 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 263 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 Patterson (T)'s water compare to other cities?
Patterson (T) ranks #753 out of 855 cities in New York (better than 12% of state cities) and #12172 out of 15744 cities nationally (23th percentile). The grade of C- reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.