Is Port Deposit, MD 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 ↓
36/100
waterverge.com Port Deposit, MD — Water Quality Report
Port Deposit's drinking water received a grade of F (36 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 8 water systems serve approximately 1,217 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 10.0 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 372 violations on record, including 31 health-based violations. 91 remain unresolved.
What to know about Port Deposit's water
Port Deposit ranks #105 out of 107 cities in Maryland for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Port Deposit 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, Port Deposit may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 36 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Port Deposit, MD water safe to drink?
Port Deposit's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (36/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 8 water systems serve approximately 1,217 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Port Deposit
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Port Deposit's water quality assessment. Grade: F (36/100).
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule, Arsenic.
Contaminants: Arsenic.
Contaminants: Arsenic, Nitrate.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4091). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3349). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Port Deposit'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
Port Deposit's water system has 372 total violations on record, including 31 health-based violations. 91 remain unresolved. 36 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Cecil County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1975. 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 Susquehanna River, Octoraro Creek Near Richardsmere, Deer Creek, Ches Bay At Mouth Of Susq R At Havre De Grace, Swan Creek.
Where does Port Deposit's water come from?
Port Deposit's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 8 water systems serving approximately 1,217 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Susquehanna River (river), Octoraro Creek Near Richardsmere (river), Deer Creek (river), Ches Bay At Mouth Of Susq R At Havre De Grace (stream), Swan Creek (river).
What Port Deposit residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Port Deposit'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.
Port Deposit'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 Port Deposit
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Port Deposit, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
MARYLAND PAVING INC ABERDEEN, MD21001 | — | — | 8.9 mi |
U.S. ARMY ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND, MD21005 | — | — | 8.4 mi |
HARFORD SYSTEMS LLC ABERDEEN, MD21001 | — | — | 6.3 mi |
CYTEC ENGINEERED INC HAVRE DE GRACE, MD21078 | — | — | 5.1 mi |
TANNER INDUSTRIES INC HAVRE DE GRACE, MD21078 | — | — | 5.4 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Port Deposit
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.
- WOODLAWN COUNTY LANDFILL2.2 mi
- ORDNANCE PRODUCTS INC9.4 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtCaroline County 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.
Flood & disaster history
Cecil County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1975. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Port Deposit'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. | 10.0 | 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. | 1.42 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level trend (90th percentile)
See how Port Deposit compares by contaminant
Explore where Port Deposit ranks among all Maryland cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Port Deposit's water comes from
Port Deposit'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 1,217 people through 8 water systems.
Water bodies near Port Deposit
Port Deposit is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Port Deposit
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| BENJAMINS VILLAGE/HOMESTEAD M.H.P. | MD0070209 | 400 | GW |
| FOREST GREEN COURT MOBILE HOME PARK | MD0070217 | 212 | GW |
| MAPLE HILL MOBILE ESTATES | MD0070223 | 180 | GW |
| TOWN OF HENDERSON | MD0050008 | 156 | GW |
| WOODLAWN MOBILE HOME PARK - NEW | MD0070239 | 134 | GW |
| OAK LANE MOBILE HOME PARK | MD0070226 | 55 | GW |
| WOODLAWN MOBILE HOME PARK - OLD | MD0070241 | 50 | GW |
| JUBILEE MHP | PA7360108 | 30 | GW |
How Port Deposit compares
Full Maryland rankings →Port Deposit's score of 36/100 is below the average of 60/100 among major Maryland cities. 10 of 10 nearby cities score higher.
Nearby cities
View Maryland rankings →About Port Deposit, MD
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Port Deposit's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Cecil
Frequently asked questions
Is Port Deposit, MD tap water safe to drink?
Port Deposit's water quality earned a grade of F (36/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #105 out of 107 cities tested in Maryland.
What contaminants are in Port Deposit's water?
Lead was measured at 10.0 ppb (90th percentile). 372 violations are on record.
How is Port Deposit'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 Port Deposit?
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 Port Deposit's water come from?
Port Deposit's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 8 water systems serving approximately 1,217 residents.
What health violations has Port Deposit's water system had?
Port Deposit has 31 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in October 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 91 violations remain unresolved.
Is Port Deposit's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Port Deposit 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 372 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 Port Deposit's water compare to other cities?
Port Deposit ranks #105 out of 107 cities in Maryland (better than 2% of state cities) and #15506 out of 15744 cities nationally (2th percentile). The grade of F reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.