By City of Dubuque News Desk

June 2026

DUBUQUE, Iowa — The City of Dubuque’s Water Department has released its 2025 Drinking Water Quality Report, reaffirming the community’s access to some of the highest-quality tap water in the state. Officials report zero drinking water violations for the year, underscoring the department’s ongoing commitment to public health and regulatory compliance.

The comprehensive report, which details testing for regulated contaminants, confirms that Dubuque’s water fully meets all state and federal standards established under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Safe Drinking Water Act. While some contaminants were detected at trace levels — as is common even in the purest water supplies — all results remained well below maximum contaminant levels (MCLs).

“ The City of Dubuque’s Water Department is proud of the high quality of the City’s readily available water supply,” the report states. Residents can continue to trust their tap water as a safe, reliable, and exceptionally affordable resource.

Source Water and Protection Efforts

Dubuque draws its water from two primary sources: the Apple-Plum Alluvial aquifer and the deeper Jordan (Cambrian-Ordovician) aquifer. The shallower Apple-Plum aquifer is rated as highly susceptible to contamination due to its proximity to surface activities, while the Jordan aquifer offers greater natural protection and is considered only slightly susceptible.

The Iowa Department of Natural Resources has completed a detailed source water assessment, available on the city’s website at cityofdubuque.org/water. Residents can also request a copy by calling the Water Department at 563-589-4291.

Cost and Value Highlighted

One of the report’s standout messages is the exceptional value of municipal water. The average household water rate for fiscal year 2027 is just $23.17 per month for 3,200 gallons of usage — the second-lowest among Iowa’s largest cities that soften their water. This rate is 16.2% below the average and significantly lower than Cedar Rapids, which charges 32% more.

At just $0.72 per 100 gallons, city water offers dramatic savings compared to bottled water. The report notes that 100 gallons of bottled water (based on 20-oz bottles at $2.41 each) would cost over $1,540.

Special Populations and Health Information

The report reminds residents that all drinking water, including bottled varieties, naturally contains small amounts of contaminants. While these do not necessarily pose health risks, certain vulnerable populations — including infants, elderly individuals, cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, and those with HIV/AIDS or weakened immune systems — may face higher risks from microbial contaminants like Cryptosporidium.

The EPA and CDC provide specific guidance for these groups, available at epa.gov/ground-water-and-drinking-water or by calling the Safe Drinking Water Hotline at 800-426-4791.

Lead, Copper, and Emerging Concerns

The department continues proactive efforts regarding lead and copper. Lead exposure remains a concern primarily from older home plumbing rather than the municipal supply. Residents are encouraged to:

•  Flush pipes for several minutes before using water for drinking or cooking

•  Use only cold water for consumption and formula preparation

•  Consider ANSI-certified filters

•  Have their water tested by contacting the Water Department

A comprehensive service line inventory has been completed, and residents can request results by calling 563-589-4291. Lead sampling data is also publicly available through the Iowa Drinking Water Data Portal.

Regarding per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), the report confirms that 2025 levels remained within EPA lifetime interim health advisory limits. More information is available at cityofdubuque.org/PFAS.

Infrastructure and Commitment

Dubuque’s water distribution system includes 330.4 miles of mains, 8,008 control valves, and 2,606 fire hydrants. The department operates according to American Water Works Association best practices and continues investing in new methods to maintain superior water quality.

For questions about the 2025 report, contact Water Department Director Christopher Lester at 563-589-4291.

The full report is available online at cityofdubuque.org/water. City officials encourage all residents to review the document to better understand their water supply and the steps being taken to protect it.

This annual transparency report highlights Dubuque’s strong track record in water management and its dedication to delivering safe, affordable drinking water to the community. As concerns about water quality continue nationwide, Dubuque stands out as a model of reliability and responsible stewardship.