California Water Quality Directory
Find detailed information about water quality in cities and ZIP codes across California. Discover which contaminants might be present and understand how they compare to EPA and recommended limits.
Cities starting with "R"
Rackerby
Rail Road Flat
Raisin City
Ramona
Ranchita
Rancho Cordova
Rancho Cucamonga
Rancho Mirage
Rancho Palos Verdes
Rancho Santa Fe
Rancho Santa Margarita
Randsburg
Ravendale
Raymond
Red Bluff
Red Mountain
Redcrest
Redding
Redlands
Redondo Beach
Redway
Redwood City
Redwood Valley
Reedley
Represa
Rescue
Reseda
Rialto
Richgrove
Richmond
Richvale
Ridgecrest
Rimforest
Rio Dell
Rio Linda
Rio Nido
Rio Oso
Rio Vista
Ripon
River Pines
Riverbank
Riverdale
Riverside
Robbins
Rocklin
Rodeo
Rohnert Park
Rosamond
Rosemead
Roseville
Ross
Rough And Ready
Round Mountain
Rowland Heights
Rumsey
Running Springs
Rutherford
Ryde
About Water Quality
Water quality is a measure of the suitability of water for a particular use based on selected physical, chemical, and biological characteristics. In California, water quality can vary significantly by location, affected by factors such as:
Understanding Contaminants
Water contaminants include a wide range of substances from natural minerals to industrial chemicals. Some have health implications, while others affect taste, odor, or appearance of water.
EPA Standards
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sets legal limits for contaminants in drinking water. These standards protect public health by limiting the levels of contaminants allowed.
Health Guidelines
Beyond EPA limits, there are often stricter health-based guidelines recommended by scientists and health organizations for optimal water quality.
Common Contaminants
Common water contaminants in California include arsenic, lead, nitrates, bacteria, pesticides, and industrial chemicals that can vary by region.