Lead Service Lines at Rocky Mountain College Water System
What you need to know
Rocky Mountain College's water system serves about 5,700 people in Montana. The college is required by federal law to maintain an inventory of lead service lines—the pipes that carry water from the main water line under the street into buildings.
Right now, the college has not yet completed or made public a full inventory of these pipes. This doesn't mean there's lead in the water; it means the data isn't available yet to residents and the public.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are a real concern. When water sits in a lead pipe overnight or for several hours, lead can leach into it. This is especially important for families with young children and pregnant people, since even small amounts of lead exposure can affect development.
The good news: lead in water is preventable and treatable. If you have a lead service line, there are immediate steps you can take to reduce exposure while planning for replacement.
What Rocky Mountain College should be doing
Federal regulations require water systems to:
- Test water for lead at the tap
- Identify which service lines are made of lead
- Share this information with customers
- Plan for replacing lead lines over time
The EPA and state regulators oversee this work. If your water comes from Rocky Mountain College, you have a right to know the results of their testing and their inventory status.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Rocky Mountain College's water department directly and ask for their lead and copper test results and their current service line inventory status. Request a copy of any available data about your street or building.
- Have your water tested if you're concerned. Many local health departments offer free or low-cost testing. Results come back in about a week.
- Use a filter certified for lead (NSF 53 rated) on your kitchen tap while you wait for more information. Boiling does not remove lead.
- Flush your pipes each morning: run cold water for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before drinking or cooking, especially in homes that sit empty during the day.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does Rocky Mountain College water have lead in it?
Lead levels in the water depend on your service line material and how long water sits in your pipes. The college is required to test water at customers' taps; ask them for their latest lead and copper test results. If you're concerned, you can have your own water tested through your local health department.
How do I know if I have a lead service line?
The college should have this information in their service line inventory. Contact them and ask specifically about your address. You can also look where your water line enters your building—lead is soft and gray, and a magnet won't stick to it.
Is it safe to drink the water right now?
If the college is following federal regulations and treating water properly, tap water is generally safe. However, if you have a lead service line or old plumbing, use a certified filter (NSF 53) and flush pipes in the morning to be extra safe. For health concerns, contact your pediatrician or the CDC.
What should I do if I think I have a lead pipe?
Use a water filter rated NSF 53 for lead on your kitchen tap, flush pipes before drinking, and avoid hot tap water for cooking or baby formula. Contact a licensed plumber for a professional assessment, and ask the college about their lead line replacement program and timeline.