Is Preble (T), MA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded C+, with 16 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
69.2/100
waterverge.com Preble (T), MA — Water Quality Report
Preble (T)'s drinking water received a grade of C+ (69.2 out of 100), indicating fair water quality. The city's 4 water systems serve approximately 520 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 0.0 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 234 violations on record, including 10 health-based violations. 16 remain unresolved.
What to know about Preble (T)'s water
Preble (T) ranks #233 out of 280 cities in Massachusetts for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Preble (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.
As a small community water system, Preble (T) may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 6 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Preble (T), MA water safe to drink?
Preble (T)'s drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of C+ (69.2/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 4 water systems serve approximately 520 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Preble (T)
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Preble (T)'s water quality assessment. Grade: C+ (69.2/100).
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Contaminants: Nitrate.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Preble (T)'s water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Violation history
Preble (T)'s water system has 234 total violations on record, including 10 health-based violations. 16 remain unresolved. 6 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Where does Preble (T)'s water come from?
Preble (T)'s drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 4 water systems serving approximately 520 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate.
What Preble (T) residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Preble (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.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Violation summary
Violations & advisories
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. | 0.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how Preble (T) compares by contaminant
Explore where Preble (T) ranks among all Massachusetts cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Preble (T)'s water comes from
Preble (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 520 people through 4 water systems.
Water systems serving Preble (T)
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| MARYBELL HOMES | NY1100641 | 355 | GW |
| PREBLE MOBILE HOME PARK | NY1100636 | 60 | GW |
| MCBRIDE MOBILE COURT | NY1100635 | 54 | GW |
| PREBLE WATER ASSOCIATION | NY1101760 | 51 | GW |
How Preble (T) compares
Full Massachusetts rankings →Preble (T)'s score of 69.2/100 is below the average of 80/100 among major Massachusetts cities. It outscores 1 of 10 nearby cities. 9 of 10 nearby cities score higher.
Nearby cities
View Massachusetts rankings →Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Preble (T)'s water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Cortland
Frequently asked questions
Is Preble (T), MA tap water safe to drink?
Preble (T)'s water quality earned a grade of C+ (69.2/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #233 out of 280 cities tested in Massachusetts.
What contaminants are in Preble (T)'s water?
Lead was measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile). 234 violations are on record.
How is Preble (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 Preble (T)?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Preble (T)'s water come from?
Preble (T)'s water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 4 water systems serving approximately 520 residents.
What health violations has Preble (T)'s water system had?
Preble (T) has 10 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in August 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 16 violations remain unresolved.
Is Preble (T)'s groundwater at risk of contamination?
Preble (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 234 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 Preble (T)'s water compare to other cities?
Preble (T) ranks #233 out of 280 cities in Massachusetts (better than 17% of state cities) and #10973 out of 15744 cities nationally (30th percentile). The grade of C+ reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.