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WaterSafeCheck

Bethel, AK Tap Water Quality

Water safety reports for all 1 ZIP code in Bethel, Alaska

Average Score

81/100

Health Violations

9

ZIP Codes

1

High Lead Risk

0

of 1 ZIP codes

B

About Tap Water in Bethel, AK

The drinking water in Bethel, AK generally meets all federal health standards, earning a solid B grade with a composite safety score of 81/100 across 1 ZIP code. While the primary water utility, Bethel Heights Water System, maintains adequate compliance with EPA regulations, there have been minor or administrative violations on record. Overall, residents receive safe tap water that is actively monitored by Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation.

The accumulation of 9 health-based violations over the past 5 years highlights systemic challenges within Bethel's water infrastructure. When violations occur, it means that drinking water tests revealed contaminant levels exceeding safe limits, triggering mandatory corrective actions by Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation. The city relies on ground water, which may require significant treatment upgrades to address these recurring issues.

Fortunately, the modeled risk for widespread lead exposure in Bethel's municipal water is relatively low compared to national averages. However, because lead typically enters drinking water through the corrosion of older, individual home plumbing rather than the main supply lines, residents in homes built before 1986 should still exercise caution by running the tap before use.

Health-Based Contaminant Violations in Bethel

EPA records indicate that the following contaminants have exceeded Safe Drinking Water Act Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) in Bethel water systems over the past 5 years.

E. coliTotal Trihalomethanes (TTHM)Contaminant 0700

Note: The presence of a past violation does not necessarily mean current water is unsafe. Utilities are required to take corrective action. Review your Consumer Confidence Report for the latest status.

Water Quality by ZIP Code — Bethel, AK

Click any ZIP code for the full water quality report

B
99559

Bethel, AK

Score: 81/1009 violations

Frequently Asked Questions — Bethel Water Quality

Is tap water safe to drink in Bethel, AK?+
Yes — tap water in Bethel meets all federal EPA standards and earns a B grade. It is generally safe for healthy adults. As always, running your tap for 30 seconds before use and using a filter adds extra protection for vulnerable populations.
What is the water quality score for Bethel?+
The average water quality score across 1 ZIP code in Bethel, AK is 81/100. Scores are derived from EPA violation history, lead levels, enforcement actions, and infrastructure risk indicators. Individual ZIP codes may vary — search your specific ZIP above for a personalized report.
Does Bethel have lead in its tap water?+
Lead risk ratings in Bethel are relatively low based on EPA monitoring data. However, lead in home plumbing is a separate concern — if your home was built before 1986, individual tap testing is recommended.
How do I get the water quality report for Bethel?+
Each ZIP code in Bethel has a full water quality report on this site — click any ZIP code below. You can also get the annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) from your local water utility. The CCR is required to be published every year by July 1 and contains actual contaminant measurements and violation history.
Where does Bethel's tap water come from?+
Tap water in Bethel, AK primarily comes from ground water. Groundwater systems pump water from underground aquifers, which is naturally filtered through soil and rock but can still contain naturally occurring contaminants.

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