Water quality records for Homer, Minnesota show Radium detections on file — a finding that places it among the contaminants worth tracking for this area.

Data: EPA SDWIS, CCR Reports, ECHO Last verified: 2026-05-14

Radium in Homer Tap Water

Radium has been detected in Homer, Minnesota drinking water at a maximum level of 3.5 pCi/L — below the EPA MCL of 5 pCi/L (combined Ra-226 + Ra-228).

This analysis covers 27,782 residents across 1 ZIP code in Homer.

Homer's overall water quality grade is D (53/100).

Is Radium in Homer Water Safe?

Radium was detected in Homer water but currently falls within EPA limits. However, some health organizations argue the EPA MCL may not be protective enough.

If you are concerned, a reverse osmosis or ion exchange filter can reduce radium levels further.

Radium Levels by ZIP Code

Average radium level across Homer: 3.5 pCi/L

Health Effects of Radium

• Increased risk of bone cancer (radium accumulates in bones)
• The body treats radium like calcium, storing it in bones
• Lifetime cancer risk of ~1 in 10,000 at 5 pCi/L
• No safe threshold for radioactive contamination

Health risk severity: High. Governed by the Radionuclides Rule.

How Radium Gets Into Drinking Water

• Natural radioactive decay in underground rock formations
• Groundwater sources (especially deep wells)
• Mining and industrial waste
• Higher in regions with specific geology (Midwest, parts of South)

What to Do About Radium in Homer Water

1. Reverse osmosis (NSF 58 certified) removes 90%+ of radium
2. Ion exchange (water softeners) can reduce radium
3. Point-of-use RO at kitchen tap is most cost-effective
4. GAC filters alone are NOT effective for radium

Look for filters certified under NSF 58 for radium removal.

Related

• Radium — National Overview
• Radium in Minnesota
• Minnesota Water Quality
• Homer Water Quality
• Check Your ZIP Code