Is West Monroe, LA Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded D+, with 127 unresolved violations on record. See what was cited — and what it means for your tap. What to do next ↓
50.2/100
waterverge.com West Monroe, LA — Water Quality Report
West Monroe's drinking water received a grade of D+ (50.2 out of 100), indicating poor water quality. The city's 19 water systems serve approximately 116,661 residents using groundwater.
Lead levels were measured at 3.0 ppb (90th percentile), well within EPA limits. UCMR 5 testing detected 1 PFAS compound in the water supply.
The system has 658 violations on record, including 443 health-based violations. 127 remain unresolved.
What to know about West Monroe's water
West Monroe ranks #199 out of 309 cities in Louisiana for water quality, placing it below average in the state.
West Monroe 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.
PFAS compounds were detected in testing, though levels remain within current EPA limits. Residents seeking extra precaution may consider an activated carbon or reverse osmosis filter.
Hexavalent chromium (chromium-6) was detected at 0.37 µg/L in UCMR 3 testing. While below California's 10 µg/L limit and with no federal MCL set, residents sensitive to this contaminant may consider reverse osmosis filtration.
The system has seen 59 violations in the past five years, suggesting a pattern of compliance challenges that residents should monitor closely.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is West Monroe, LA water safe to drink?
West Monroe's drinking water has significant quality concerns based on EPA testing data. With a grade of D+ (50.2/100), the system has issues across multiple categories. A water filter is recommended for all residents. The city's 19 water systems serve approximately 116,661 residents using groundwater (wells).
Recent water quality updates for West Monroe
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Detected at levels within current EPA limits. PFAS persist indefinitely in the environment.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into West Monroe's water quality assessment. Grade: D+ (50.2/100).
4 health-based. Contaminants: LEAD AND COPPER RULE REVISIONS, TTHM.
1 health-based. Contaminants: Consumer Confidence Rule, TTHM.
1 health-based. Contaminants: TTHM.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for West Monroe's water supply.
Well within EPA limits.
Detected but within current EPA limits. PFAS do not break down in the environment and can accumulate in the body over time. An activated carbon filter can reduce exposure.
Violation history
West Monroe's water system has 658 total violations on record, including 443 health-based violations. 127 remain unresolved. 59 violations were issued in the last 5 years.
Where does West Monroe's water come from?
West Monroe's drinking water comes from groundwater (wells), supplied by 19 water systems serving approximately 116,661 people. Groundwater is generally less susceptible to surface contamination but can contain naturally occurring contaminants like arsenic, radon, and nitrate. Nearby water bodies include Chauvin Bayou Near Monroe (river), Bayou Desiard At Ne Drive At Monroe, La (river), Ouachita River At West Monroe (river), Slough Bayou At Bancroft Blvd At West Monroe, La (river), Youngs Bayou Nr Monroe (river).
What West Monroe residents can do
Recommended: Activated carbon or reverse osmosis filter. This addresses the specific contaminants found in West Monroe'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.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Forever chemicals overview
National PFAS report →Violation summary
Violations & advisories
Top industrial polluters within 10 miles of West Monroe
Industrial polluters nearby
Reported releases to surface water by facilities near West Monroe, ranked by pounds discharged annually.
Total reported releases to surface water: 38,745 lbs
| Facility | Top chemical | To surface water (lbs/yr) | Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
GRAPHIC PACKAGING INTERNATIONAL LLC WEST MONROE, LA71292 | Methanol | 38,745 | 1.8 mi |
LEXICON INC DBA STEEL FABRICATORS OF MONROE MONROE, LA71201 | — | — | 3.8 mi |
RIVER CITY READY MIX LLC - MONROE MONROE, LA71203 | — | — | 5.6 mi |
PLYMOUTH TUBE CO WEST MONROE, LA71292 | — | — | 1.3 mi |
RIVER CITY READY MIX LLC - WEST MONROE WEST MONROE, LA71292 | — | — | 2.9 mi |
Source: EPA Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) 2023
Drought conditions
D3 — extreme droughtOuachita Parish is currently in D3 (extreme 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 West Monroe'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. | 3.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
| 11Cl-PF3OUdS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 4:2 FTS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 6:2 FTS 6:2 FTSPFAS A fluorotelomer sulfonate commonly found at sites contaminated with aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) used in firefighting. Health EffectsPotential liver toxicity and endocrine disruption. Less studied but identified as a contaminant of concern. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), airports, military bases, and industrial facilities. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 8:2 FTS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| 9Cl-PF3ONS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| ADONA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| HFPO-DA HFPO-DA (GenX)PFAS A replacement for PFOA in manufacturing, marketed as safer but still a persistent "forever chemical." Also known as GenX. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, reproductive toxicity, immune system effects, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit10 ppt MCL Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing (used as PFOA replacement), industrial wastewater discharge. | ND | 0.01 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| lithium LithiumInorganic A naturally occurring alkali metal found in groundwater. Monitored under UCMR 5 to assess occurrence in drinking water. Health EffectsKidney effects at high doses. Low-level exposure effects under study; some research suggests neurological effects. EPA LimitNo MCL (monitoring only under UCMR 5) Common SourcesNatural mineral deposits, geothermal water, and industrial discharge. | 16.800 | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Detected |
| NEtFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NFDHA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| NMeFOSAA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFBA PFBAPFAS One of the shortest-chain PFAS compounds. Very mobile in water and difficult to remove with standard filtration. Health EffectsThyroid effects, potential developmental toxicity. Shorter half-life in body than long-chain PFAS. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and firefighting foam. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFBS PFBSPFAS A short-chain PFAS used as a replacement for PFOS. While it clears the body faster than long-chain PFAS, it still persists in the environment. Health EffectsThyroid effects, reproductive and developmental toxicity, kidney effects. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam, and as a replacement chemical in manufacturing. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFDA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFDoA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFEESA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHpA PFHpAPFAS A medium-chain PFAS compound found in various environmental samples. Less studied than PFOA/PFOS but still considered a contaminant of concern. Health EffectsLiver effects, potential developmental toxicity, and endocrine disruption. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesDegradation of longer-chain PFAS, industrial discharge, and contaminated water sources. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHpS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHxA PFHxAPFAS A short-chain PFAS replacement chemical widely used after manufacturers phased out longer-chain PFAS. Very commonly detected in water. Health EffectsLiver and kidney effects, potential thyroid disruption. Considered less toxic than long-chain PFAS but still persistent. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial processes, firefighting foam (AFFF), food packaging, and textile treatment. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFHxS PFHxSPFAS A medium-chain PFAS found in firefighting foam and consumer products. It has a long half-life in the human body, similar to long-chain PFAS. Health EffectsImmune system effects, thyroid disruption, and potential reproductive and developmental harm. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), waterproof textiles, food packaging, and industrial discharge. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFMBA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFMPA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFNA PFNAPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound used in manufacturing fluoropolymers. It bioaccumulates in the body and is very persistent in the environment. Health EffectsDevelopmental effects, liver toxicity, immune suppression, and potential cancer risk. EPA LimitPart of Hazard Index (1.0) Common SourcesFluoropolymer manufacturing, industrial emissions, and contaminated water sources. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFOA PFOAPFAS A long-chain PFAS ("forever chemical") once widely used in nonstick coatings and firefighting foam. It persists in the body and environment for years. Health EffectsLinked to kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, elevated cholesterol, and reproductive issues. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam (AFFF), nonstick cookware manufacturing, and contaminated groundwater. | ND | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFOS PFOSPFAS A long-chain PFAS compound historically used in stain-resistant coatings and firefighting foam. One of the most studied and persistent PFAS chemicals. Health EffectsLiver damage, immune system suppression, thyroid disruption, increased cholesterol, and potential cancer risk. EPA Limit4.0 ppt MCL Common SourcesFirefighting foam (AFFF), industrial sites, stain-resistant fabric treatments, and contaminated groundwater. | ND | 0.004 | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFPeA PFPeAPFAS A short-chain PFAS compound commonly detected in drinking water. One of the most frequently found PFAS in UCMR 5 monitoring. Health EffectsLess studied than PFOA/PFOS. Potential liver and thyroid effects. Research is ongoing. EPA LimitNo individual MCL (not yet regulated) Common SourcesIndustrial discharge, firefighting foam degradation, and consumer products. | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFPeS | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFTrDA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
| PFUnA | ND | HI | µg/L | PFAS | Not Detected |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how West Monroe compares by contaminant
Explore where West Monroe ranks among all Louisiana cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where West Monroe's water comes from
West Monroe'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 116,661 people through 19 water systems.
Water bodies near West Monroe
West Monroe is located near 5 notable water bodies. These water bodies contribute to the regional watershed and may indirectly affect groundwater quality.
Water systems serving West Monroe
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| WEST MONROE WATER SYSTEM | LA1073056 | 16,005 | GW |
| WEST HWY 80 ARK ROAD WS | LA1073055 | 14,649 | GW |
| GOWC NORTH WATER SYSTEM | LA1073120 | 13,287 | GW |
| GOWC EAST WATER SYSTEM | LA1073121 | 11,742 | GW |
| CHENIERE DREW NORTH WATER SYSTEM | LA1073100 | 11,280 | GW |
| SOUTHWEST OUACHITA WATERWORKS, INC | LA1073047 | 10,725 | GW |
| BROWNVILLE WATER SYSTEM | LA1073004 | 9,696 | GW |
| KIROLI DARBONNE WS | LA1073020 | 9,210 | GW |
| SOUTH MONROE WS GOWC | LA1073046 | 7,335 | GW |
| CADEVILLE WATER DISTRICT | LA1073060 | 6,219 | GW |
| BETTER WATERWORKS WATER SYSTEM | LA1073003 | 2,160 | GW |
| CHENIERE DREW SOUTH WATER SYSTEM | LA1073099 | 1,563 | GW |
| L&R NORTH WATER SYSTEM | LA1073011 | 1,293 | GW |
| LINCOLN HILLS SUBDIVISION WS | LA1073090 | 552 | GWP |
| HIDDEN OAKS SUBDIVISION WS | LA1073061 | 438 | GWP |
| MCCLENDON COMMUNITY WATER WELL | LA1073028 | 336 | GW |
| RAMSEY WATER SYSTEM | LA1073025 | 84 | GWP |
| PECAN LAKE SUBDIVISION WS | LA1073063 | 57 | GWP |
| WILDWOOD MHP WS | LA1073110 | 30 | GWP |
How West Monroe compares
Full Louisiana rankings →West Monroe's score of 50.2/100 is on par with the average of 52/100 among major Louisiana cities. It outscores 7 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View Louisiana rankings →About West Monroe, LA
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to West Monroe's water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Ouachita Parish
Frequently asked questions
Is West Monroe, LA tap water safe to drink?
West Monroe's water quality earned a grade of D+ (50.2/100). Significant issues have been found. A water filter is strongly recommended. The city ranks #199 out of 309 cities tested in Louisiana.
What contaminants are in West Monroe's water?
Lead was measured at 3.0 ppb (90th percentile). 1 PFAS compound was detected. 658 violations are on record.
How is West Monroe'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 West Monroe?
PFAS compounds have been detected. A filter with activated carbon can help reduce exposure.
Where does West Monroe's water come from?
West Monroe's water is sourced from Groundwater. The city has 19 water systems serving approximately 116,661 residents.
What health violations has West Monroe's water system had?
West Monroe has 443 health-based violations on record. The most recent violation was recorded in October 2024. Health-based violations mean the water exceeded EPA maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for a regulated substance. 127 violations remain unresolved.
Is West Monroe's groundwater at risk of contamination?
West Monroe 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 658 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 West Monroe's water compare to other cities?
West Monroe ranks #199 out of 309 cities in Louisiana (better than 36% of state cities) and #13025 out of 15744 cities nationally (17th percentile). The grade of D+ reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.