Genesee County, Michigan: drinking water report. Genesee County includes Flint and surrounding communities, with a population of about 407,000.
Genesee County includes Flint and surrounding communities, with a population of about 407,000. The county's water history became national news during the Flint Water Crisis, when a 2014 switch from Detroit's Lake Huron supply to the Flint River – without proper corrosion control – caused lead to leach from aging pipes into thousands of homes. Flint reconnected to the Great Lakes Water Authority in 2015 and has since replaced over 10,000 lead service lines, but the crisis left lasting impacts on public trust and infrastructure.
Flint's water now meets all federal standards, and lead levels have dropped significantly since service line replacement. According to the Michigan EGLE's 2024 monitoring data, Flint's 90th percentile lead level was 4 ppb – well below the action level of 15 ppb and a marked improvement from the crisis peak. However, not all lead service lines have been replaced, and homes with older internal plumbing may still have lead-bearing solder joints.
The EPA's UCMR5 data shows PFAS detections in the Great Lakes Water Authority supply that now serves Flint. Bishop International Airport in Flint has confirmed AFFF use. A 2024 Michigan EGLE report documented PFAS at low levels in the county's distribution system, below current state action levels.
Flint's water has improved dramatically, but if you live in a home where the service line was not replaced or where pre-1986 plumbing remains, lead exposure is still possible from internal pipes and solder. Running your tap for 30-60 seconds before drinking flushes standing water that may contain lead.
Check your water for the latest data at your address. For lead, a certified pitcher or faucet filter is the simplest daily solution. For PFAS, reverse osmosis adds broader protection. Our water filter guide addresses both. Pull your detailed report for historical context, and visit our Michigan page for statewide data.