Lead Service Lines in RATHBUN REGIONAL WATER ASSN (RATHBUN)

RATHBUN Regional Water Association serves about 33,000 people across Iowa. If you're connected to this system, you may be wondering whether your home has a lead service line—the underground pipe that carries water from the main line to your house.

What we know about lead service lines at RATHBUN

As of now, RATHBUN has not completed a public inventory of lead service lines in its system. This means the utility has not yet documented how many homes are served by lead pipes, or which neighborhoods are most affected.

This is not unusual: many water systems across the country are still in the early stages of mapping their lead service lines. Federal law (the Lead and Copper Rule) requires all utilities to complete inventories by October 2024, so RATHBUN should have this information soon—if it doesn't already.

Why this matters

Lead service lines can leach lead into drinking water, especially in homes with water that is corrosive (acidic). Lead exposure is a serious health concern, particularly for children and pregnant people. Even low levels can affect brain development.

The good news: if you know or suspect you have a lead service line, steps exist to reduce your risk while you wait for replacement.

What you can do now

Contact your water utility directly. RATHBUN can tell you:

• Whether your address has a known lead service line
• What the utility's lead replacement plan looks like
• Whether your water is treated to reduce corrosion
• What assistance programs may be available to help with replacement costs

You can also ask whether the utility has applied for or received funding under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), which is financing lead service line replacement nationwide.

Test your water if you're concerned. A simple lead test costs $20–$30 and can tell you if lead is present at your tap. Contact your local health department or visit NSF International for a certified lab near you.

Use water safety practices at home while waiting for more information. Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking if the water has sat in pipes overnight. Use cold water for drinking and cooking (hot water dissolves lead more easily). Consider a pitcher filter or faucet filter certified for lead removal.

Next steps for residents

• Call RATHBUN directly and ask about their lead service line inventory and replacement timeline
• Request a water quality test if you want to know your lead level right now
• Ask about rebates or grants available for lead service line replacement in your area
• Check back on this page—the utility's inventory status will be updated as new information becomes public

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