Lead service lines in Anthony, NM
Anthony serves about 28,000 residents across 12 water systems. Right now, none of those systems have reported known lead service lines in their inventories—but that doesn't mean lead isn't present. Many water systems, especially smaller ones, are still completing their lead service line surveys and don't yet have full data.
What you're looking at
A lead service line is the pipe that connects your home to the main water line under the street. If yours is made of lead, drinking water can pick up lead particles, especially if your water is acidic or soft. Lead exposure is a real health concern, particularly for young children and pregnant people.
The five largest utilities serving Anthony are:
- Lower Rio Grande PWWA South Valley (11,542 people)
- Anthony W&SD (8,691 people)
- Lower Rio Grande PWWA East Mesa (2,104 people)
- Federal Correctional Institution La Tuna (1,400 people)
- La Union MDS & WA (1,177 people)
None of these have reported confirmed lead service lines yet. However, "not reported yet" is different from "none exist." Many utilities are still mapping their systems.
How to find out if your home has a lead line
The best source is your water utility. They either have a map showing where lead lines are known to exist, or they can tell you whether your specific address has been surveyed. Start by calling or emailing the utility that serves your address.
If your utility doesn't have complete data, you can also ask a plumber to inspect the line where it enters your home. Lead is soft and gray, and a magnet won't stick to it (unlike steel pipes).
What to do if you have a lead line
The only permanent fix is replacement, but it's expensive and often requires street work. In the meantime, you can reduce exposure by running cold water for 30 seconds before drinking, using cold water for cooking and baby formula, and considering a certified lead-reduction filter. For health questions, talk to your doctor or call the CDC's lead hotline at 1-800-424-LEAD.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your local water utility and ask for their lead service line inventory or map.
- If your address hasn't been surveyed, ask when it will be.
- Have a plumber inspect the service line at your home if the utility can't confirm your status.
- If lead is present, explore replacement funding options through your state or EPA programs.