Drinking Water and Pesticides

Pesticides have the potential to contaminate drinking water supplies. They are applied to farmlands, gardens and lawns and can make their way into ground water or surface water systems that feed drinking water supplies.

Whether these contaminants pose a health risk depends on how toxic the pesticides are, how much is in the water, and how much exposure occurs on a daily basis.

Along with the states and tribes, EPA implements regulations that protect the nation’s drinking water from source to tap. Primary standards protect public health by limiting the levels of impurities in drinking water.

What’s in your water: view annual drinking water quality reports
Private drinking water wells
More information on water and pesticides
Understanding pesticide risks