Is Velva, ND 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 ↓
81.3/100
waterverge.com Velva, ND — Water Quality Report
Velva's drinking water received a grade of B+ (81.3 out of 100), indicating good water quality. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 1,084 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 6.7 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 12 violations on record, including 4 health-based violations. 4 remain unresolved.
What to know about Velva's water
Velva ranks #82 out of 103 cities in North Dakota for water quality, placing it among the lowest-rated in the state.
Velva 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, Velva may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Velva, ND water safe to drink?
Velva's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of B+ (81.3/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 1 water system serves approximately 1,084 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Velva
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Velva's water quality assessment. Grade: B+ (81.3/100).
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4717). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: Chlorine, Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4323). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Velva'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
Velva's water system has 12 total violations on record, including 4 health-based violations. 4 remain unresolved. 2 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
McHenry County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1997. 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 Bonnes Coulee.
Where does Velva's water come from?
Velva's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 1 water system serving approximately 1,084 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Bonnes Coulee (river).
What Velva residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Velva'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.
Velva'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 Velva
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near Velva, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
ADM PROCESSING VELVA, ND58790 | — | — | 3.3 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Flood & disaster history
McHenry County has experienced 10 federally declared disasters since 1997. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Velva'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. | 6.7 | 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. | 2.01 | 1.3 | mg/L | Inorganic | Over Limit |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
Copper level (90th percentile)
Latest reading: 2.010 mg/L (2009)
EPA action level: 1.3 mg/L
See how Velva compares by contaminant
Explore where Velva ranks among all North Dakota cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Velva's water comes from
Velva'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 1,084 people through 1 water system.
Water bodies near Velva
Velva is located near 1 notable water body. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Velva
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| VELVA CITY OF | ND2500964 | 1,084 | GW |
How Velva compares
Full North Dakota rankings →Velva's score of 81.3/100 is on par with the average of 82/100 among major North Dakota cities. It outscores 4 of 10 nearby cities. 6 of 10 nearby cities score higher.
Nearby cities
View North Dakota rankings →About Velva, ND
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Velva's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Mchenry
Frequently asked questions
Is Velva, ND tap water safe to drink?
Velva's water quality earned a grade of B+ (81.3/100). The water generally meets EPA standards and is considered safe for consumption. The city ranks #82 out of 103 cities tested in North Dakota.
What contaminants are in Velva's water?
Lead was measured at 6.7 ppb (90th percentile). 12 violations are on record.
How is Velva'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 Velva?
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 Velva's water come from?
Velva's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 1 water system serving approximately 1,084 residents.
What health violations has Velva's water system had?
Velva has 4 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in January 2023. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 4 violations remain unresolved.
Is Velva's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Velva 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 12 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 Velva's water compare to other cities?
Velva ranks #82 out of 103 cities in North Dakota (better than 20% of state cities) and #7518 out of 15744 cities nationally (52th percentile). The grade of B+ reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.
Does Velva's small water system affect quality?
Velva's system serves approximately 1,084 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 12 violations on record.