Is Webster, WI Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded B+, with 8 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
83.2/100
Webster, WI — Water Quality Report
Webster's drinking water received a grade of B+ (83.2 out of 100), indicating good water quality. The city's 3 water systems serve approximately 2,077 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 2.1 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 77 violations on record, including 13 health-based violations. 8 remain unresolved.
What to know about Webster's water
Webster ranks #199 out of 446 cities in Wisconsin for water quality, placing it mid-range in the state.
Webster 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, Webster may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Webster, WI water safe to drink?
Webster's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of B+ (83.2/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 3 water systems serve approximately 2,077 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for Webster
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Webster's water quality assessment. Grade: B+ (83.2/100).
Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule.
Contaminants: Lead and Copper Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4383). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Contaminants: Revised Total Coliform Rule.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-3249). Hurricane event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Webster's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Violation history
Webster's water system has 77 total violations on record, including 13 health-based violations. 8 remain unresolved. 2 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Flood & environmental risk
Burnett County has experienced 3 federally declared disasters since 2001. 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 Fork Clam River, Clam River, Clam R..
Where does Webster's water come from?
Webster's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 3 water systems serving approximately 2,077 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 Fork Clam River (river), Clam River (river), Clam R. (stream).
What Webster residents can do
Recommended: NSF-certified water filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in Webster'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.
Webster'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
Superfund sites within 10 miles of Webster
Superfund sites nearby
Federally tracked hazardous-waste sites on the EPA National Priorities List. Proximity does not necessarily indicate tap-water contamination — the connection depends on hydrology and treatment.
- PENTA WOOD PRODUCTS7.4 mi
Source: EPA Superfund National Priorities List
Flood & disaster history
Burnett County has experienced 3 federally declared disasters since 2001. 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. | 2.1 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how Webster compares by contaminant
Explore where Webster ranks among all Wisconsin cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Webster's water comes from
Webster'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 native american ownership and serves approximately 2,077 people through 3 water systems.
Water bodies near Webster
Webster is located near 3 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving Webster
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| HERTEL WEST | 055295902 | 1,281 | GW |
| WEBSTER WATERWORKS | WI8070312 | 652 | GW |
| MAPLE PLAIN | 055295901 | 144 | GW |
How Webster compares
Full Wisconsin rankings →Webster's score of 83.2/100 is above the average of 65/100 among major Wisconsin cities. It outscores 8 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Wisconsin rankings →ZIP codes served by Webster
The water systems serving Webster cover 1 ZIP code. Select any ZIP to see which water systems serve that area.
About Webster, WI
Wikipedia →Michael Lewis Webster was an American professional football center in the National Football League (NFL) from 1974 to 1990 with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Kansas City Chiefs. He is a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, class of 1997. Nicknamed "Iron Mike", Webster anchored the Steelers' offensive line during much of their run of four Super Bowl victories from 1974 to 1979 and is considered by many the greatest center in NFL history.
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Webster's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Burnett
Frequently asked questions
Is Webster, WI tap water safe to drink?
Webster's water quality earned a grade of B+ (83.2/100). The water generally meets EPA standards and is considered safe for consumption. The city ranks #199 out of 446 cities tested in Wisconsin.
What contaminants are in Webster's water?
Lead was measured at 2.1 ppb (90th percentile). 77 violations are on record.
How is Webster'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 Webster?
Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Webster's water come from?
Webster's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 3 water systems serving approximately 2,077 residents.
What health violations has Webster's water system had?
Webster has 13 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in July 2023. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 8 violations remain unresolved.
Is Webster's groundwater at risk of contamination?
Webster 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 77 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 Webster's water compare to other cities?
Webster ranks #199 out of 446 cities in Wisconsin (better than 55% of state cities) and #6553 out of 15744 cities nationally (58th percentile). The grade of B+ reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.