Lead Service Lines in River Rock County Water and Sewer District
River Rock County Water and Sewer District serves about 4,200 people in Montana. Like many water systems across the US, the district may have lead service lines—the pipes that connect the main water line under the street to homes. If your house was built before 1986, there's a higher chance your service line contains lead.
What we know about this water system
The district has not yet completed a full inventory of its lead service lines. This means we don't have a count of how many homes might be affected. The water system draws from groundwater sources.
This is not unusual—many smaller water systems are still working through their inventories. Federal rules require all systems to map out their lead service lines by 2027, so this work is ongoing across the country.
Why this matters for your home
Lead in drinking water typically comes from corroded pipes and fixtures, not from the water source itself. Even "low-level" lead exposure can affect children's development. If you're concerned about lead in your home's water supply, the safest approach is to have your service line inspected or tested.
What you can do now
Contact your water utility directly. River Rock County Water and Sewer District can tell you whether your address has a known lead service line, or whether your service line is still being assessed. They may also offer testing or replacement programs.
Have your water tested. A simple, inexpensive test can measure lead in your tap water right now. Your utility can point you to approved labs, or you can contact the Montana Department of Environmental Quality.
If you have young children or are pregnant, talk to your doctor or pediatrician about lead exposure. The CDC has guidance on reducing lead risk at home.
Next steps for residents
- Contact River Rock County Water and Sewer District to ask about your service line's status and any testing or replacement programs they offer
- Request a water test through your utility or a state-certified lab
- Check the EPA's guidance on lead and copper rule compliance at epa.gov/lead
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does River Rock County Water and Sewer District have lead service lines?
The district has not yet completed a full inventory, so the number of lead service lines is unknown. Contact the utility directly to find out whether your home's service line has been assessed.
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Your water utility can check your address in their records. You can also hire a plumber to inspect the service line where it enters your home, though this requires digging. A water test can also indicate if lead is present in your tap water.
Is the water from River Rock County Water and Sewer District safe to drink?
The utility's water source is groundwater. Lead typically enters tap water through corroded pipes and fixtures, not the source. A water test will tell you whether lead is in your home's water right now.
What should I do if I'm worried about lead and my kids?
Contact your pediatrician or the CDC for health guidance. In the meantime, you can reduce exposure by flushing your tap before drinking, using cold water for cooking, and having your water tested.