Macomb County, Michigan: drinking water report. Macomb County sits northeast of Detroit, home to about 880,000 residents.
Macomb County sits northeast of Detroit, home to about 880,000 residents. Most of the county receives treated water from the Great Lakes Water Authority, sourced from Lake Huron and treated at GLWA's massive facilities. Some northern communities operate independent groundwater systems. The county's auto manufacturing heritage has left industrial contamination in some areas.
GLWA's Lake Huron water is well-treated and generally clean at the point of distribution. Macomb County's water quality concerns center on two things: lead from aging distribution infrastructure and PFAS in local groundwater. Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Harrison Township is a confirmed PFAS source from AFFF firefighting foam use.
According to the Michigan EGLE's 2024 monitoring data, PFAS has been detected in groundwater monitoring wells around Selfridge, with concentrations exceeding Michigan's MCLs in some cases. Communities drawing supplemental groundwater in the base's vicinity face the highest risk. UCMR5 data shows detections in eight county water systems.
For GLWA customers, the supply is clean at the source. Lead from household plumbing in older homes is the primary concern. For communities near Selfridge, PFAS is the additional risk factor.
Check your water for data specific to your provider. A dual-purpose filter for lead and PFAS addresses both Macomb County concerns. Our water filter guide covers options. Pull your detailed report, and visit our Michigan page for statewide context.