Selawik, AK Tap Water Quality

The drinking water in Selawik, AK generally meets all federal health standards, earning a solid B grade with a composite safety score of 70/100 across 1 ZIP code. While the primary water utility, Selawik Safewater Facility, 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 24 health-based violations over the past 5 years highlights systemic challenges within Selawik'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 surface water, which may require significant treatment upgrades to address these recurring issues.

Fortunately, the modeled risk for widespread lead exposure in Selawik'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.