Lead Service Lines in Skagway, Alaska
Skagway serves 11,469 people through 3 water systems. Currently, no lead service lines have been identified in the city's inventories.
What does this mean for you?
Lead service lines are pipes that connect your home to the public water main. If your line is made of lead, water can pick up lead as it travels to your tap. The good news: Skagway's water utilities have not reported known lead service lines in their systems.
However, "not reported" is not the same as "none exist." Alaska water systems are still working through lead service line inventories required by the EPA. Some utilities may not have completed their full surveys yet.
Your water system
The City of Skagway (population served: 10,947) is the main utility. Two smaller systems also serve the area: Bear Trap Cafe and White Pass RV Park.
None of these systems have reported known lead service lines to date. That said, if your home was built before 1986 or you're unsure about your service line material, it's worth asking your utility directly.
What you can do right now
Lead exposure happens at the tap, not in the main pipes. Even if your service line is lead-free, corrosion inside your home's plumbing can release lead into drinking water.
Simple steps to reduce exposure:
- Use cold water for drinking and cooking (hot water dissolves lead faster).
- Let water run for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before drinking, especially if pipes haven't been used for several hours.
- If you have young children or are pregnant, consider testing your tap water.
The CDC and EPA both offer guidance on reducing lead exposure at home. A local pediatrician can also advise if you're concerned about your family's health.
Next steps for residents
- Contact the City of Skagway water department to ask about your specific address and service line material.
- Request a copy of the lead service line inventory (utilities are required by law to maintain and share these).
- Test your tap water if you have concerns; your utility can point you to certified labs.
- Check your home's age and plumbing history — older homes are more likely to have lead connections.