Ohio – The Buckeye State – Water Quality Report 2025: PFAS Testing, Infrastructure Concerns & Safety across your state
Ohio’s water infrastructure serves approximately 11.8 million residents across diverse geographical regions, from the Lake Erie shoreline in the north to the Ohio River valley in the south. The state operates through a complex network of over 1,500 public water systems, ranging from large municipal utilities like Cleveland Water and Columbus Public Utilities to smaller rural systems providing essential services to underserved communities. Ohio’s water sources include the Ohio River, Lake Erie, numerous inland lakes and reservoirs, and extensive groundwater aquifers that supply both urban centers and agricultural areas.
Despite significant water resources, Ohio faces unprecedented infrastructure challenges. According to the American Society of Civil Engineers’ 2025 Infrastructure Report Card, Ohio’s drinking water infrastructure received a C- grade, highlighting aging systems, funding shortfalls, and emerging contaminant concerns including PFAS “forever chemicals.” The state has received over $256 million in federal infrastructure investments from the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to address these challenges, including $184 million specifically for lead service line replacement and $46 million for PFAS treatment. Ohio’s water quality improvement efforts are demonstrated through partnerships between the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (Ohio EPA), local utilities, and federal agencies working to ensure safe, reliable water access for all residents while addressing the legacy of industrial contamination and the pressing challenge of Lake Erie algae blooms.
Ohio Water Quality: Current Status (2024-2025)
Statewide Compliance and Testing
- Overall Compliance: The majority of Ohio’s 1,500+ public water systems meet federal Safe Drinking Water Act standards, though over 100 systems have detectable PFAS levels, with concentrations ranging from 5 to 140 parts per trillion in tap water samples.
- PFAS Monitoring: Ohio has implemented comprehensive PFAS testing across public water systems, with the Ohio EPA establishing standardized sampling protocols that serve as a model for other states nationwide.
- Infrastructure Investment: Over $256 million in federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has been allocated to Ohio for water infrastructure improvements, including $184 million for lead service line replacement and $46 million for emerging contaminant treatment.
Major Water Sources and Challenges
- Lake Erie System: Serves northern Ohio communities but faces annual harmful algae bloom challenges that impact water treatment costs and safety, requiring enhanced monitoring and treatment protocols during bloom seasons.
- Ohio River Basin: Primary source for southern Ohio communities, with documented PFAS contamination requiring ongoing monitoring and potential treatment upgrades, particularly near industrial areas.
- Lead Service Line Crisis: Ohio ranks third nationally with approximately 745,000 lead service lines still in use, presenting significant health risks and requiring an estimated $5 billion investment for complete replacement over 15 years.
Emerging Contaminant Response
- PFAS Regulation Implementation: New EPA drinking water standards for PFOA and PFOS (4 parts per trillion) take effect in 2029, requiring significant infrastructure investments from affected water systems across the state.
- Treatment Technology Deployment: Water utilities are implementing advanced treatment technologies including activated carbon filtration and reverse osmosis systems to remove PFAS and other emerging contaminants.
- Proactive Municipal Response: Cities like Dayton have established some of the nation’s first municipal PFAS testing laboratories and comprehensive contamination response strategies, setting standards for other utilities.
Lake Erie Algae Bloom Impact
- Annual Bloom Challenges: Western Lake Erie experiences harmful algae blooms each summer that threaten drinking water for 11 million people, with 2024 showing a severity index of 6.6 (moderately severe).
- Treatment Cost Impact: Residents served by Lake Erie water systems pay an additional $10.48 per person annually on average for enhanced treatment related to algae blooms, with Toledo residents paying $18.76 extra per person.
- Source Water Protection: Ongoing efforts to reduce agricultural runoff and phosphorus loading to Lake Erie through watershed management plans and conservation practices, though the 40% reduction target remains unmet.
Lead Service Line Replacement Initiative
- Legislative Action: Bipartisan legislation proposed in 2025 would require all public water systems to replace lead service lines within 15 years, addressing the health crisis affecting nearly 4,000 Ohio children tested for high lead levels annually.
- Municipal Progress: Cities like Akron plan to be lead-free by 2027, Columbus is implementing comprehensive replacement starting in 2025, and Cincinnati has already replaced over 6,000 lead lines since 2016.
- Federal Support: The Biden Administration’s $184 million allocation for Ohio lead pipe replacement prioritizes disadvantaged communities and provides grants and forgivable loans to ensure equitable access to safe drinking water.
Looking Forward: 2025-2030
Ohio’s water quality landscape faces a critical transformation period as utilities prepare for new federal PFAS regulations taking effect in 2029 while simultaneously addressing the nation’s third-largest inventory of lead service lines. The state’s dual challenge of legacy infrastructure and emerging contaminants requires unprecedented coordination between state regulators, water utilities, and communities. Success will depend on sustained federal funding, effective implementation of the proposed Lead Line Replacement Act, continued progress on Lake Erie algae bloom reduction, and proactive adoption of advanced treatment technologies. Ohio’s comprehensive approach to PFAS monitoring and municipal leadership in cities like Dayton and Akron positions the state as a potential model for addressing 21st century water quality challenges, provided that adequate funding and regulatory support continue.
Recommendations for Ohio Residents
Know Your Water Source
Contact your water utility to request annual water quality reports and ask about PFAS testing results. Visit Ohio EPA’s website to access your local system’s testing data and understand any contaminants of concern in your area, including lead service line information.
Support Infrastructure Investment
Stay informed about local water infrastructure needs and support utility rate structures that enable necessary improvements. Attend public meetings when utilities discuss lead service line replacement and PFAS treatment investments.
Consider PFAS-Certified Filtration
For areas with known PFAS contamination, consider NSF-certified activated carbon or reverse osmosis filters specifically tested for PFAS removal. These can provide additional protection while utilities implement treatment upgrades.
Report Water Quality Concerns
Contact your local water utility immediately for taste, odor, or color concerns. Report suspected contamination to Ohio EPA’s Division of Drinking and Ground Waters at (614) 644-2752 for investigation and follow-up.
Support Lake Erie Protection
Support efforts to reduce nutrient runoff into Lake Erie through responsible fertilizer use, participation in watershed protection programs, and advocacy for agricultural best management practices to reduce harmful algae blooms.
Ohio Cities We Cover
Cincinnati Water Quality
Comprehensive analysis of Greater Cincinnati Water Works, serving the tri-state region with Ohio River water sources. Includes information on lead service line replacement progress, PFAS monitoring, and treatment processes.
Cleveland Water Quality
Detailed assessment of Cleveland Water Department systems, covering Lake Erie source water challenges, algae bloom response protocols, and the city’s comprehensive lead service line replacement program.
Columbus Water Quality
Complete evaluation of Columbus Public Utilities water systems, including groundwater and surface water sources, PFAS treatment implementation, and the city’s ambitious lead service line replacement initiative.
Toledo Water Quality
In-depth analysis of Toledo’s water systems, focusing on Lake Erie source water management, harmful algae bloom mitigation strategies, and enhanced treatment protocols for emerging contaminants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ohio’s tap water safe to drink?
Most of Ohio’s public water systems meet federal drinking water standards and are generally safe for consumption. However, some areas have elevated PFAS levels and lead service line concerns that require attention.
The Ohio EPA requires comprehensive testing across all 1,500+ public water systems. Over 100 systems have detectable PFAS levels ranging from 5-140 parts per trillion, and Ohio has approximately 745,000 lead service lines that pose potential health risks. Water utilities are implementing advanced treatment technologies and the state has received over $256 million in federal funding to address infrastructure needs and emerging contaminants. Residents should review their utility’s annual water quality report and understand their local conditions.
Why do Lake Erie algae blooms affect my water?
Harmful algae blooms in Lake Erie threaten drinking water for 11 million people and force water utilities to implement enhanced treatment protocols and monitoring.
These blooms are caused by agricultural runoff containing fertilizer and manure that flows into Lake Erie, creating ideal conditions for toxic cyanobacteria growth. The blooms can produce toxins that require specialized treatment and monitoring, adding approximately $10.48 per person annually to water costs (up to $18.76 in Toledo). Utilities must test for toxins, potentially switch water sources, and implement additional treatment during bloom season. The 2024 bloom had a severity index of 6.6, considered “moderately severe” by NOAA, and Ohio continues working to reduce nutrient pollution through watershed management.
How can I find out about my local water quality?
Ohio residents can access comprehensive water quality information through several resources:
• Annual Water Quality Reports: Contact your water utility directly for their Consumer Confidence Report, which details all testing results and any violations or concerns
• Ohio EPA eFile System: Visit the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency’s online database to access testing results and compliance information for your local water system
• Lead Service Line Maps: Many Ohio utilities now provide online maps where you can enter your address to determine if you have lead service lines
• PFAS Testing Data: Ohio EPA requires comprehensive PFAS testing and makes results publicly available on their website
Why does Ohio have so many lead water lines?
Ohio ranks third nationally with approximately 745,000 lead service lines due to historical construction practices and the age of many water systems:
Historical Construction: Many Ohio cities developed their water systems in the early-to-mid 20th century when lead pipes were commonly used for service lines
Industrial Legacy: Ohio’s industrial heritage meant rapid urban development with infrastructure that is now reaching the end of its useful life
Replacement Challenges: The sheer scale of replacement (745,000 lines at an estimated $5 billion cost) has made progress gradual, though federal funding and new legislation are accelerating efforts
Federal Support: The Biden Administration has allocated $184 million specifically for Ohio’s lead pipe replacement, with new EPA regulations requiring all lead lines to be replaced by 2034. Cities like Akron, Columbus, and Cincinnati are making significant progress, with some planning to be lead-free by 2027.
Contaminants of Concern
PFAS “Forever Chemicals”
Source: Industrial manufacturing, military installations, firefighting foam use, consumer products including non-stick cookware and stain-resistant textiles
Health Effects: Linked to kidney and testicular cancer, liver damage, immune system suppression, high cholesterol, and developmental effects in children
Current Status: Over 100 Ohio water systems have detectable PFAS levels ranging from 5-140 parts per trillion, requiring treatment upgrades by 2029 EPA Limits: 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS individually, with hazard index for other PFAS compounds
Lead Service Lines
Source: Historical water system construction using lead pipes for service connections, particularly in older Ohio cities developed in the early-to-mid 20th century
Health Effects: Neurological damage in children, developmental delays, learning disabilities, cardiovascular effects in adults, and kidney damage from prolonged exposure
Current Status: Ohio has approximately 745,000 lead service lines (third-highest nationally), affecting nearly 4,000 children tested annually for elevated lead levels Regulatory Response: New federal rules require replacement within 10 years, with $184 million in federal funding allocated for Ohio
Lake Erie Algae Toxins
Source: Agricultural runoff containing phosphorus and nitrogen from fertilizers and manure, combined with warm water conditions in western Lake Erie during summer months
Health Effects: Gastrointestinal illness, liver damage, neurological symptoms, and skin irritation from exposure to cyanobacterial toxins like microcystin
Current Status: Annual blooms threaten 11 million people’s drinking water, with 2024 severity index of 6.6 (moderately severe), requiring enhanced treatment costing residents extra $10-19 per person annually Management Response: NOAA forecasting, enhanced monitoring, and watershed nutrient reduction efforts
Legacy Industrial Contaminants
Source: Historical steel production, chemical manufacturing, and industrial activities throughout Ohio’s industrial corridor, particularly near major rivers and former manufacturing sites
Health Effects: Varies by contaminant but may include increased cancer risk, cardiovascular effects, neurological impacts, and kidney damage from prolonged exposure to heavy metals and industrial chemicals
Current Status: Ongoing monitoring and remediation at identified sites, with enhanced treatment at affected water systems and source water protection measures Regulatory Response: Ohio EPA oversight and cleanup requirements under state and federal environmental laws, with Superfund sites receiving federal attention
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