The Town of Tangier’s 2025 Annual Drinking Water Quality Report brings largely reassuring news for residents: the town’s water supply remains free of many common contaminants and continues to meet federal safety standards across the board.
Report is posted at the end of this story.
Testing confirmed no detectable levels of lead, copper, or nitrates in the distribution system — three of the most commonly concerning drinking water contaminants. All other monitored substances, including fluoride, barium, radium, and gross beta particles, came in well below their maximum allowable levels, often by a wide margin.
The town’s three deep groundwater wells — ranging from 975 to 1,250 feet in depth — provide a naturally clean source of drinking water requiring no treatment. This is a notable distinction, as many municipal systems require chemical treatment processes to meet safety thresholds.
When bacterial contamination was detected earlier in the year, the town responded promptly, completing a Level 1 assessment in February and a more comprehensive Level 2 assessment by August — demonstrating a proactive commitment to public health oversight.
Tangier’s water continues to be a safe and dependable supply.
Tangier Island, Virginia 