Is Piedmont, SD Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded F — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
39.5/100
waterverge.com Piedmont, SD — Water Quality Report
Piedmont's drinking water received a grade of F (39.5 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 27 water systems serve approximately 5,234 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 7.0 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 710 violations on record, including 171 health-based violations. 52 remain unresolved.
What to know about Piedmont's water
Piedmont ranks #140 out of 141 cities in South Dakota for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Piedmont 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.
The system has seen 13 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Piedmont, SD water safe to drink?
Piedmont's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (39.5/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 27 water systems serve approximately 5,234 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Piedmont
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Piedmont's water quality assessment. Grade: F (39.5/100).
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
1 health-based. Contaminants: LEAD AND COPPER RULE REVISIONS.
Contaminants: Chlorine.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4463). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3234). Coastal Storm event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Piedmont'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
Piedmont's water system has 710 total violations on record, including 171 health-based violations. 52 remain unresolved. 13 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Meade County has experienced 7 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 Rapid Creek, South Canyon, Rapid, Boxelder Creek, Stagebarn Canyon.
Where does Piedmont's water come from?
Piedmont's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 27 water systems serving approximately 5,234 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Rapid Creek (river), South Canyon (river), Rapid (river), Boxelder Creek (river), Stagebarn Canyon (river).
What Piedmont residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Piedmont'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.
Piedmont'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
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of Piedmont
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Piedmont, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
PETE LIEN & SONS INC RAPID CITY, SD57702 | — | — | 7.4 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Drought conditions
D3 — extreme droughtPennington 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
Meade County has experienced 7 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 Piedmont'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. | 7.0 | 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. | 4.00 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 4.000 mg/L (2008)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Piedmont compares by contaminant
Explore where Piedmont ranks among all South Dakota cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Piedmont's water comes from
Piedmont'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 5,234 people through 27 water systems.
Water bodies near Piedmont
Piedmont is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Piedmont
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| NORTHDALE SANITARY DISTRICT | SD4600514 | 1,075 | GW |
| PIEDMONT | SD4602303 | 971 | GWP |
| WESTON HEIGHTS HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATIO | SD4600862 | 412 | GW |
| BLUCKSBERG MOUNTAIN #2 | SD4602366 | 333 | GW |
| SUNSET RANCH | SD4602263 | 263 | GW |
| VALLEY VIEW WATER COMPANY | SD4600040 | 248 | GW |
| SUNNYSIDE MOBILE HOME PARK II | SD4602001 | 235 | GW |
| BLUCKSBERG MOUNTAIN #1 | SD4600324 | 223 | GW |
| HORSESHOE ACRES WATER ASSOCIATION | SD4602266 | 180 | GW |
| TIMBERWOOD PARK ESTATES | SD4602272 | 158 | GW |
| WESTBERRY TRAILS WATER USERS ASSOC | SD4600253 | 155 | GW |
| ROLLING DICE SUBDIVISION | SD4602249 | 122 | GW |
| ELK CREEK VILLAGE | SD4602237 | 110 | GW |
| SPRING CANYON WATER COMPANY | SD4600015 | 89 | GW |
| SHERIDAN LAKE HIGHLANDS, INC. | SD4602285 | 85 | GW |
| BESTGEN ADDITION WATER COMPANY | SD4600387 | 73 | GW |
| RIMROCK HIGHLAND ESTATES COMM ASSOC | SD4602231 | 66 | GW |
| CROOKED OAKS CANYON HOMEOWNERS | SD4600915 | 65 | GW |
| AUTUMN MEADOWS SANITARY DISTRICT | SD4602240 | 49 | GW |
| PLEASANT VALLEY HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATI | SD4602172 | 48 | GW |
| CAVALRY TRAILS HOMEOWNER ASSOCIATION | SD4602106 | 44 | GW |
| PINE CONE ESTATES | SD4602179 | 42 | GW |
| VALLEY VIEW WATER ASSOCIATION | SD4602343 | 42 | GW |
| CEDAR GULCH 2 | SD4602295 | 40 | GW |
| LOFTY PINES II | SD4602250 | 38 | GW |
| BRIDLE RIDGE ESTATES | SD4602362 | 38 | GW |
| GOLDEN HILLS SUBDIVISION | SD4602284 | 30 | GW |
How Piedmont compares
Full South Dakota rankings →Piedmont's score of 39.5/100 is below the average of 66/100 among major South Dakota cities. It outscores 1 of 10 nearby cities. 9 of 10 nearby cities score higher.
Nearby cities
View South Dakota rankings →About Piedmont, SD
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Piedmont's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Meade
Frequently asked questions
Is Piedmont, SD tap water safe to drink?
Piedmont's water quality earned a grade of F (39.5/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #140 out of 141 cities tested in South Dakota.
What contaminants are in Piedmont's water?
Lead was measured at 7.0 ppb (90th percentile). 710 violations are on record.
How is Piedmont'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 Piedmont?
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 Piedmont's water come from?
Piedmont's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 27 water systems serving approximately 5,234 residents.
What health violations has Piedmont's water system had?
Piedmont has 171 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in July 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 52 violations remain unresolved.
Is Piedmont's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Piedmont 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 710 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 Piedmont's water compare to other cities?
Piedmont ranks #140 out of 141 cities in South Dakota (better than 1% of state cities) and #15242 out of 15744 cities nationally (3th percentile). The grade of F reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.