Is Port Leyden (V), NY Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded B — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
78.3/100
waterverge.com Port Leyden (V), NY — Water Quality Report
Port Leyden (V)'s drinking water received a grade of B (78.3 out of 100), indicating good water quality. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 820 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 9.5 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 29 violations on record, including 5 health-based violations. 4 remain unresolved.
What to know about Port Leyden (V)'s water
Port Leyden (V) ranks #615 out of 855 cities in New York for water quality, placing it below average in the state.
Port Leyden (V) 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 Leyden (V) may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Port Leyden (V), NY water safe to drink?
Port Leyden (V)'s drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of B (78.3/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 820 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Port Leyden (V)
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Port Leyden (V)'s water quality assessment. Grade: B (78.3/100).
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4814). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4625). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Contaminants: TTHM, Total Haloacetic Acids (HAA5), Nitrate.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Port Leyden (V)'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 Leyden (V)'s water system has 29 total violations on record, including 5 health-based violations. 4 remain unresolved. 1 violation was issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Lewis County has experienced 7 federally declared disasters since 1985. 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 Black River.
Where does Port Leyden (V)'s water come from?
Port Leyden (V)'s drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 1 water system serving approximately 820 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Black River (river).
What Port Leyden (V) residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Port Leyden (V)'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 Leyden (V)'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
Flood & disaster history
Lewis County has experienced 7 federally declared disasters since 1985. 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 Leyden (V)'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. | 9.5 | 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. | 590.00 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 590.000 mg/L (2009)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Port Leyden (V) compares by contaminant
Explore where Port Leyden (V) ranks among all New York cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Port Leyden (V)'s water comes from
Port Leyden (V)'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 820 people through 1 water system.
Water bodies near Port Leyden (V)
Port Leyden (V) is located near 1 notable water body. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Port Leyden (V)
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| PORT LEYDEN VILLAGE | NY2402368 | 820 | GW |
How Port Leyden (V) compares
Full New York rankings →Port Leyden (V)'s score of 78.3/100 is on par with the average of 74/100 among major New York cities. It outscores 5 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View New York rankings →About Port Leyden (V), NY
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Port Leyden (V)'s water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Lewis
Frequently asked questions
Is Port Leyden (V), NY tap water safe to drink?
Port Leyden (V)'s water quality earned a grade of B (78.3/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #615 out of 855 cities tested in New York.
What contaminants are in Port Leyden (V)'s water?
Lead was measured at 9.5 ppb (90th percentile). 29 violations are on record.
How is Port Leyden (V)'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 Leyden (V)?
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 Leyden (V)'s water come from?
Port Leyden (V)'s water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 1 water system serving approximately 820 residents.
What health violations has Port Leyden (V)'s water system had?
Port Leyden (V) has 5 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in October 2021. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 4 violations remain unresolved.
Is Port Leyden (V)'s groundwater at risk of contamination?
Port Leyden (V) 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 29 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 Leyden (V)'s water compare to other cities?
Port Leyden (V) ranks #615 out of 855 cities in New York (better than 28% of state cities) and #8725 out of 15744 cities nationally (45th percentile). The grade of B reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.
Does Port Leyden (V)'s small water system affect quality?
Port Leyden (V)'s system serves approximately 820 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 29 violations on record.