Dakota County, Minnesota: drinking water report. Dakota County lies south of St. Paul, home to about 440,000 residents in communities like Eagan,
Dakota County lies south of St. Paul, home to about 440,000 residents in communities like Eagan, Burnsville, and Apple Valley. Most communities draw from groundwater – the Prairie du Chien-Jordan aquifer and deeper formations – though some purchase Mississippi River water from St. Paul.
Dakota County sits on the southern edge of the Twin Cities east metro PFAS contamination zone. While the heaviest contamination from 3M's operations is in Washington County, some Dakota County communities have detected PFAS in their groundwater. Minnesota's health-based guidance values for 15 PFAS compounds provide detailed monitoring that most states lack.
According to the Minnesota Department of Health's 2024 data, three Dakota County water systems reported PFAS above state guidance values. The contamination is from a mix of sources – the regional 3M plume, local fire stations, and wastewater recharge. The county has been proactive in connecting affected communities to cleaner water sources.
Dakota County's position on the edge of the east metro PFAS plume means monitoring is especially important for groundwater-dependent communities.
Check your water for data specific to your provider. Reverse osmosis provides the most effective PFAS removal. Our water filter guide covers certified options. Pull your detailed report, and visit our Minnesota page for statewide data.