Is Sargent, TX Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded F, with 26 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
43/100
waterverge.com Sargent, TX — Water Quality Report
Sargent's drinking water received a grade of F (43 out of 100), indicating failing water quality. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 3,328 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 6.5 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 106 violations on record, including 76 health-based violations. 26 remain unresolved.
What to know about Sargent's water
Sargent ranks #942 out of 1067 cities in Texas for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Sargent 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 57 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Sargent, TX water safe to drink?
Sargent's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of F (43/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 3,328 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Sargent
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Sargent's water quality assessment. Grade: F (43/100).
Contaminants: Public Notice.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Arsenic.
Contaminants: Public Notice.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Sargent'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.
Violation history
Sargent's water system has 106 total violations on record, including 76 health-based violations. 26 remain unresolved. 57 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Where does Sargent's water come from?
Sargent's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 2 water systems serving approximately 3,328 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate.
What Sargent residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Sargent'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.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtMatagorda 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.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Sargent'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. | 6.5 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how Sargent compares by contaminant
Explore where Sargent ranks among all Texas cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Sargent's water comes from
Sargent'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 3,328 people through 2 water systems.
Water systems serving Sargent
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| CANEY CREEK MUD OF MATAGORDA COUNTY | TX1610087 | 2,764 | GW |
| MATAGORDA COUNTY WCID 2 | TX1610016 | 564 | GW |
How Sargent compares
Full Texas rankings →Sargent's score of 43/100 is on par with the average of 46/100 among major Texas cities. It outscores 7 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Texas rankings →About Sargent, TX
Wikipedia →Sargent is a small unincorporated community located in the eastern corner of Matagorda County, Texas, United States.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Sargent's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Matagorda
Frequently asked questions
Is Sargent, TX tap water safe to drink?
Sargent's water quality earned a grade of F (43/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #942 out of 1067 cities tested in Texas.
What contaminants are in Sargent's water?
Lead was measured at 6.5 ppb (90th percentile). 106 violations are on record.
How is Sargent'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 Sargent?
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 Sargent's water come from?
Sargent's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 2 water systems serving approximately 3,328 residents.
What health violations has Sargent's water system had?
Sargent has 76 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in December 2025. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 26 violations remain unresolved.
Is Sargent's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Sargent 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 106 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 Sargent's water compare to other cities?
Sargent ranks #942 out of 1067 cities in Texas (better than 12% of state cities) and #14681 out of 15744 cities nationally (7th percentile). The grade of F reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.