PARAGOULD MUNICIPAL UTILITIES Lead Service Line Inventory
Paragould Municipal Utilities serves about 31,188 people in Arkansas. Like all US water systems, it is required by federal law to create and maintain an inventory of lead service lines—the pipes that connect homes to the public water main.
What you need to know
As of now, Paragould Municipal Utilities has not yet inventoried its service lines. This does not mean your home has a lead service line; it means the utility is still in the process of identifying which pipes are lead, galvanized (which can also carry lead), or safe alternatives.
Federal deadlines require water systems to complete these inventories by October 2024, with some systems receiving extensions into 2025. If your system hasn't finished, ask your utility for an update on their timeline.
Why this matters for your home
Lead service lines corrode over time, especially in homes with more acidic water. When corrosion happens, lead can seep into drinking water at levels that pose health risks—particularly to young children and pregnant people.
The good news: lead doesn't happen by accident, and there are ways to reduce exposure while you wait for your utility's inventory and any replacement work.
What you can do right now
Check your home. If your house was built before 1986 in the US, or before 1988 in Arkansas, there's a higher chance of a lead service line. Paragould utilities can sometimes tell you based on construction records, though not always.
Use a water filter certified for lead removal (look for NSF/ANSI Standard 53) on your kitchen tap if you're concerned. This is inexpensive and effective while you wait.
Let tap water run for 30 seconds before using it for drinking or cooking, especially in the morning or after several hours without use.
Get your water tested if you want certainty. Your utility may offer free or subsidized testing; ask them directly.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Paragould Municipal Utilities to ask about their lead service line inventory status and timeline.
- Request a free water test for lead if your utility offers one.
- If you're concerned about health, speak with your pediatrician or contact the CDC's lead information line.
- Check the EPA's guide on lead in drinking water for additional resources.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
How do I know if I have a lead service line?
Contact your water utility with your address; they may have construction records showing your service line material. You can also hire a plumber to inspect the pipe where it enters your home, or request a free water test for lead from your utility.
Is it safe to drink tap water right now?
The only way to know is testing. If you're concerned, use an NSF/ANSI 53-certified filter or bottled water, especially for drinking and cooking. Run tap water for 30 seconds before use, especially after periods of no use.
What happens after my utility finishes the inventory?
If lead service lines are found, utilities are required to replace them over time. You'll be notified if your home is included. The federal government has allocated billions in funding to help with replacements.
Can lead in water hurt my family?
Lead exposure, especially in children, can affect development and learning. For health concerns, contact your pediatrician or the CDC. Reducing exposure now—through testing, filters, and flushing—is a practical step.