New federal regulations require the Albuquerque Bernalillo County Water Utility Authority to search its network for lead in water pipes leading into homes and businesses.
So far, so good.
The water utility authority’s ongoing inventory of water lines hasn’t found any lead lines in Albuquerque as of Monday, Spokesperson David Morris said..
The agency is in the process of examining all the lines in the community. The water utility authority is responsible for pipes running between the water main in the street and the water meter — any pipes beyond the meter are the property owner’s responsibility.
Authority personnel are researching historical records and conducting field investigations to collect information about each service line.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, exposure to lead – even at the lowest levels – is connected to lower IQ, hyperactivity, slowed growth, anemia and other health problems.
In a letter to customers, the agency said a door hanger will be presented at any address where lead is discovered in the pipes and any needed follow-ups will be scheudled. The letter will include information on how to get free water quality testing and when the service line to the meter will be replaced.
The water utility authority has also created an interactive map showing the line materials at the addresses that have already been surveyed. The page also contains a link customers may use to add information they may have due to recent reconstruction or repairs.
Anyone with questions specific to service lines or wishing to request a water quality test may contact the water utility authority at 505-842-9287, or send an email to lead@abcwua.org.