Is Scio, OR Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded C, with 29 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
61.3/100
waterverge.com Scio, OR — Water Quality Report
Scio's drinking water received a grade of C (61.3 out of 100), indicating fair water quality. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 940 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 187 violations on record, including 4 health-based violations. 29 remain unresolved.
What to know about Scio's water
Scio ranks #102 out of 213 cities in Oregon for water quality, placing it mid-range in the state.
Scio 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, Scio may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 15 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Scio, OR water safe to drink?
Scio's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of C (61.3/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 940 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Scio
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Scio's water quality assessment. Grade: C (61.3/100).
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: COLIPHAGE.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4452). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4055). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Scio's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Violation history
Scio's water system has 187 total violations on record, including 4 health-based violations. 29 remain unresolved. 15 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Linn County has experienced 6 federally declared disasters since 1964. 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 North Santiam R, Crabtree Creek, Thomas Creek.
Where does Scio's water come from?
Scio's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 2 water systems serving approximately 940 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include North Santiam R (river), Crabtree Creek (river), Thomas Creek (river).
What Scio residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Scio'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.
Scio'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 Scio
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Scio, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
STATERA FIBERGLASS LLC - AUMSVILLE PLANT AUMSVILLE, OR97325 | — | — | 8.3 mi |
WILBUR ELLIS JEFFERSON JEFFERSON, OR97352 | — | — | 7.7 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Drought conditions
D2 — severe droughtLinn 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
Linn County has experienced 6 federally declared disasters since 1964. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
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 Scio compares by contaminant
Explore where Scio ranks among all Oregon cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Scio's water comes from
Scio'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 940 people through 2 water systems.
Water bodies near Scio
Scio is located near 3 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Scio
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| SCIO, CITY OF | OR4100795 | 900 | GW |
| SCIO MOBILE VILLAGE | OR4100796 | 40 | GW |
How Scio compares
Full Oregon rankings →Scio's score of 61.3/100 is above the average of 42/100 among major Oregon cities. It outscores 9 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Oregon rankings →About Scio, OR
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Scio's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Linn
Frequently asked questions
Is Scio, OR tap water safe to drink?
Scio's water quality earned a grade of C (61.3/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #102 out of 213 cities tested in Oregon.
What contaminants are in Scio's water?
Lead was measured at 0.0 ppb (90th percentile). 187 violations are on record.
How is Scio'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 Scio?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Scio's water come from?
Scio's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 2 water systems serving approximately 940 residents.
What health violations has Scio's water system had?
Scio has 4 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. 29 violations remain unresolved.
Is Scio's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Scio 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 187 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 Scio's water compare to other cities?
Scio ranks #102 out of 213 cities in Oregon (better than 52% of state cities) and #12000 out of 15744 cities nationally (24th percentile). The grade of C reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.