Lead Service Lines at Oriskany Hills Golf Club
Oriskany Hills Golf Club serves about 100 people and maintains a lead service line inventory as required by New York State and federal law. Here's what we know about lead pipes at this water system.
What is a lead service line?
A lead service line is the underground pipe that connects the water main in the street to your building. If your service line is lead, drinking water can pick up lead as it travels through that pipe—especially in the first few seconds after the tap has been off for hours.
Lead service lines were common in older buildings built before the 1980s. They were phased out as health risks became clear, but thousands still exist across the country.
What does Oriskany Hills Golf Club's inventory show?
The water system has inventoried 12 service lines so far:
- 1 confirmed lead service line
- 10 lines of unknown material
- 1 non-lead line
The unknown lines need further testing or inspection to determine what material they're made of. This is important because the water system cannot plan replacements or issue public health guidance without knowing which pipes actually contain lead.
What should you do if you think your line is lead?
If your building is connected to Oriskany Hills Golf Club's system, contact the utility directly and ask about your service line material. They can tell you if your specific connection is lead, galvanized steel (which can also leach some lead), or safer materials like copper or plastic.
If your line is lead or unknown, you have options:
- Test your water through a certified lab to check for lead levels.
- Use a certified filter (NSF/WaterMark certified for lead removal) on your tap if replacement isn't immediate.
- Flush the line before drinking by running cold water for 30 seconds if it's been sitting unused for several hours.
For health concerns, especially if children under age 6 drink from your tap, consult your pediatrician or contact the CDC's lead hotline at 1-800-CDC-INFO.
Next steps for residents
- Call Oriskany Hills Golf Club (the water utility) and ask about your service line material.
- Request the full LSL inventory if you want to see the complete list of tested lines.
- If your line is lead, get a quote for replacement—many states and utilities offer financial assistance.
- Test your water if you're unsure or want confirmation of lead levels.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 12 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
How do I know if my water has lead in it?
The only way to know is to test your water. A certified lab can measure lead levels in your tap water. Contact your local health department or water utility for a list of approved labs. Lead in water is colorless and odorless.
Is it safe to drink water from a lead service line?
It depends on the lead level, your age, and how long water sits in the pipe. Lead is most harmful to young children. Use a certified water filter (NSF/WaterMark certified for lead), flush your line before drinking, and test your water to know your actual exposure.
How much does it cost to replace a lead service line?
Replacement typically costs $3,000–$25,000 depending on your location and how deep the pipe is buried. Many water utilities, states, and federal programs now offer grants or loans to help with replacement costs.
What does 'unknown' mean in the lead service line inventory?
Unknown means the water system hasn't yet confirmed what material the service line is made of. These lines need visual inspection or testing. Contact your utility to find out the status and timeline for testing your line.