Lead Service Lines at U.S. Naval Academy Water System
What you need to know
The U.S. Naval Academy water system serves about 8,700 people in Maryland. Like many older water systems, it may have lead service lines—the pipes that connect the public water main to individual buildings.
Lead service lines are a real health concern. Water sitting in these pipes overnight or during low-use periods can pick up lead, especially in buildings with older plumbing. The only way to eliminate this risk is to replace the line.
Current inventory status
As of now, the U.S. Naval Academy has not completed a public inventory of lead service lines. This means we don't yet know how many lead lines serve the system, if any. The utility is required by federal law to develop and share this inventory, but the timeline for completion varies.
What happens next
Federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is helping water systems across the country replace lead service lines. The U.S. Naval Academy may be eligible for grants or low-interest loans to support this work. However, without a completed inventory, replacement planning cannot begin in earnest.
The best way to find out your building's status is to contact the water utility directly. They can tell you whether your service line has been tested, what material it's made of, and what steps are planned.
If you're concerned about lead in your water
The CDC recommends that anyone concerned about lead—especially families with young children or pregnant people—have their water tested. You can buy a simple test kit at most hardware stores, or contact your state health department for testing resources. If your water tests high for lead, use filtered or bottled water for drinking and cooking until the line is replaced.
Next steps for residents
- Contact the U.S. Naval Academy Public Works or water operations to ask for your building's service line status.
- Request a copy of the lead service line inventory once it's published.
- If you're concerned about current exposure, have your water tested by a certified lab.
- Speak with your pediatrician or local health department if you have questions about health effects.
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 my home has a lead service line?
The U.S. Naval Academy is developing a public inventory. Contact the water utility directly to ask about your specific building. You can also have your water tested for lead; high results suggest a lead line or interior plumbing issue.
Is the water safe to drink right now?
Lead service lines pose the most risk when water sits unused for several hours. Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking. If you're concerned, test your water or use filtered/bottled water until you know your service line material.
When will lead lines be replaced?
Replacement timelines depend on when the inventory is complete and funding is secured. Contact the U.S. Naval Academy water utility for their current replacement plan and timeline.
What should I do if my child was exposed to lead?
Talk to your pediatrician about testing your child's blood lead level. Early detection and intervention are important. The CDC also offers guidance on lead exposure and children's health.