LOWER RIO GRANDE PWWA SOUTH VALLEY Lead Service Line Inventory
What you need to know
LOWER RIO GRANDE PWWA SOUTH VALLEY serves about 11,542 people in New Mexico. The utility draws from groundwater sources.
Inventory status: This water system has not yet completed a lead service line (LSL) inventory. Without an inventory, the utility cannot tell you exactly how many lead pipes may be in your neighborhood or which homes are at higher risk.
Why this matters
Lead service lines are pipes that connect the water main in the street to homes. Lead can leach into drinking water—especially in homes with older plumbing or where water is slightly acidic. Even small amounts of lead exposure can affect children's development. If you have young children or are pregnant, this is worth taking seriously.
The good news: lead doesn't get into every home equally. If your house was built after the 1980s, or if you've had your service line replaced, your risk is much lower. Homes built between 1920–1970 are at highest risk.
What the utility should be doing
Federal law requires all water systems to create a lead service line inventory by October 2024 if they serve more than 50,000 people, and by 2025–2026 if they serve fewer. LOWER RIO GRANDE PWWA SOUTH VALLEY is working to meet these deadlines.
Once an inventory is complete, the utility must:
- Share results with customers
- Replace lead service lines, starting with homes served by lead pipes in areas with children under 6 or pregnant people
- Provide information on how to get your home tested
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility to ask about their lead service line inventory timeline and what they've found so far.
- Find out your service line material by calling the utility or checking if records are available online.
- Test your water if you're concerned. Many utilities offer free or low-cost testing kits.
- Use a water filter certified for lead (NSF/ANSI 53) if you want immediate peace of mind while waiting for your utility's inventory results.
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Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Does my water have lead in it right now?
Without knowing your service line material and home plumbing, it's impossible to say for certain. Groundwater-fed systems like yours are less prone to corrosion than surface-water systems, but lead can still leach from older pipes. A water test will give you a definitive answer.
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Contact LOWER RIO GRANDE PWWA SOUTH VALLEY directly—they may have records of your address. You can also hire a plumber to inspect the pipe where it enters your home, or use a magnet test (lead is not magnetic).
What should I do if my water tests positive for lead?
If levels are above 15 ppb (parts per billion), contact your utility immediately and use a pitcher filter or point-of-use filter certified for lead until the issue is resolved. For health concerns, talk to your pediatrician or call the CDC.
Will the utility replace my service line for free?
Most utilities offer cost-sharing or grants for lead service line replacement, especially in homes with vulnerable residents. Ask your utility about their replacement assistance program.