Revised Lead and Copper Rule (LCRR)
The Board of Public Works is in full compliance with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Revised Lead and Copper Rule (LCRR), which requires all water systems to develop and maintain a complete inventory of service lines. This crucial step is part of BPW’s ongoing efforts to safeguard public health by ensuring that no lead or copper contaminants are present in its drinking water system. It should be noted that BPW’s water system has no evidence of lead or copper contaminants in its system and water is tested regularly. The Annual Drinking Water Quality Report is made available to all residents, is posted online, and can be accessed at: https://www.gbpw.com/sites/default/files/2024-03/2023BPWWaterReport.pdf. Citizens may also request a copy of this report by emailing: lcr@gbpw.com.
The Revised Lead and Copper Rule mandates that community water systems identify all service lines. As outlined in the federal regulation, 40 CFR § 141.84(a): “Each water system must develop and submit to the state a service line inventory by October 16, 2024, identifying the locations of all known lead service lines and providing a detailed plan for replacing them.”
The inventory is the foundation for future efforts to replace any identified lead service lines, as required by the federal regulation. The purpose is to reduce exposure to lead, which poses significant health risks, particularly for children and pregnant women. Lead exposure can cause developmental delays in children and other serious health conditions.
BPW has conducted a service line inventory, in full compliance with the EPA’s guidelines. The inventory is required by law to be maintained in perpetuity.
“Providing safe, quality water has always been a top priority for the Board,” said Donnie Hardin, General Manager. “While we have no reason to believe there are any lead service lines in our system, we must, and will, comply with the EPA’s new Lead and Copper Rule.”
Failure to comply with the LCRR can have significant consequences for local governments, including fines, legal action, and potential public health risks. According to 40 CFR § 141.86(g)(1), “Failure to submit an inventory or replacement plan by the compliance date can result in enforcement actions, including civil penalties.”
Much of the inventory is marked as “Unknown” per the guidance by the EPA. A designation of “Unknown” requires us to notify each customer in writing that although the chance is slim, that there may be lead in their service line – either on the BPW side of the meter or on the customer’s side. BPW has no way of knowing the type of material that is used to connect the meter to the customer’s house as this is the responsibility of the homeowner. BPW is encouraging all residents and property owners to assist with the process by providing any available information about the materials used in their service lines. Public outreach efforts will include mailings and a dedicated webpage with resources to help identify service line material.
LCR Survey