Is Smith River, CA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded C+ — but Copper was detected above EPA limits. Here's what's in the water and how to remove it. What to do next ↓
65.9/100
waterverge.com Smith River, CA — Water Quality Report
Smith River's drinking water received a grade of C+ (65.9 out of 100), indicating fair water quality. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 2,788 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 1.0 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 155 violations on record, including 11 health-based violations. 6 remain unresolved.
What to know about Smith River's water
Smith River ranks #542 out of 694 cities in California for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Smith River 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, Smith River may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
The system has seen 18 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Smith River, CA water safe to drink?
Smith River's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of C+ (65.9/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 2,788 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Smith River
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Smith River's water quality assessment. Grade: C+ (65.9/100).
Contaminants: Surface Water Treatment Rule.
Contaminants: Surface Water Treatment Rule.
Contaminants: Surface Water Treatment Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3592). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4683). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Smith River's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Exceeds EPA action level. Copper can leach from household plumbing — flush taps for 30 seconds before drinking.
Violation history
Smith River's water system has 155 total violations on record, including 11 health-based violations. 6 remain unresolved. 18 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Del Norte County has experienced 10 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 Smith R Nr Crescent City, Smith R Nr Fort Dick.
Where does Smith River's water come from?
Smith River's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 2 water systems serving approximately 2,788 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Smith R Nr Crescent City (river), Smith R Nr Fort Dick (river).
What Smith River residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Smith River'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.
Smith River'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
Drought conditions
D1 — moderate droughtDel Norte County is currently in D1 (moderate 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
Del Norte County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1964. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Smith River'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. | 1.0 | 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. | 2.85 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level trend (90th percentile)
See how Smith River compares by contaminant
Explore where Smith River ranks among all California cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Smith River's water comes from
Smith River'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 2,788 people through 2 water systems.
Water bodies near Smith River
Smith River is located near 2 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Smith River
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMITH RIVER C.S.D. | CA0810002 | 2,568 | GW |
| Howonquet Community(Smith River) | 090605060 | 220 | SW |
How Smith River compares
Full California rankings →Smith River's score of 65.9/100 is above the average of 57/100 among major California cities. It outscores 6 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View California rankings →About Smith River, CA
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Smith River's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Del Norte
Frequently asked questions
Is Smith River, CA tap water safe to drink?
Smith River's water quality earned a grade of C+ (65.9/100). Some concerns have been identified. Consider a water filter for an extra layer of protection. The city ranks #542 out of 694 cities tested in California.
What contaminants are in Smith River's water?
Lead was measured at 1.0 ppb (90th percentile). 155 violations are on record.
How is Smith River'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 Smith River?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Smith River's water come from?
Smith River's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 2 water systems serving approximately 2,788 residents.
What health violations has Smith River's water system had?
Smith River has 11 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. 6 violations remain unresolved.
Is Smith River's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Smith River 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 155 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 Smith River's water compare to other cities?
Smith River ranks #542 out of 694 cities in California (better than 22% of state cities) and #11449 out of 15744 cities nationally (27th percentile). The grade of C+ reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.