UNIVERSITY OF MONTANA Water System Lead Service Line Inventory
About this water system
The University of Montana serves approximately 15,000 people and draws its water from groundwater sources. Like all public water systems in the US, it is required to maintain an inventory of lead service lines—the pipes that connect the main water line under the street to individual buildings.
Current inventory status: The University of Montana has not yet completed and made public a lead service line inventory. This does not mean the system has lead service lines; it means the data is still being compiled or has not been published yet.
What is a lead service line?
Lead service lines are metal pipes made primarily of lead. Many were installed in the early-to-mid 1900s because lead was cheap and easy to work with. Lead can leach into drinking water, especially if the water is corrosive or if pipes are disturbed during repairs.
Federal law now requires all water systems to:
- Identify and count lead service lines in their service area
- Create a plan to replace them
- Provide this information to customers
What you can do right now
Contact the University of Montana directly. Ask them:
- Do they have a lead service line inventory available?
- When will it be published?
- If your building or address is included, what is your service line material?
You can also request a free water test through your local health department or use an EPA-certified lab. Testing is especially important if you have young children, are pregnant, or live in an older building.
If you do live in the University of Montana service area and are concerned about lead, run your cold water tap for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking. This flushes water that may have sat in the pipes overnight.
Next steps for residents
- Contact the water system: Reach out to University of Montana's water/utilities department and ask for their current lead service line inventory and any available testing results.
- Get your water tested: Request a test through your county health department or a certified lab, especially if you have young children.
- Learn more: Visit the EPA's lead and copper rule page for current federal requirements and what to expect from your water system.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does the University of Montana have lead in its water?
The University of Montana is required to test and report on lead levels. Contact the water system directly to request their latest water quality report and lead service line inventory status.
How do I know if my home has a lead service line?
Ask the University of Montana for their lead service line inventory or request a site inspection. Older homes (pre-1950s) are more likely to have lead lines, but age alone doesn't confirm it.
Is it safe to drink the water if there's a lead service line?
A lead service line doesn't guarantee lead in your water—it depends on water chemistry, pipe age, and other factors. A water test is the only way to know your actual lead level. Contact your local health department for testing resources.
What should I do if I'm worried about lead?
Run your cold water tap for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking, use cold water for cooking and baby formula, and request a free or low-cost water test from your health department. For health concerns, speak with your doctor or call the CDC.