Lead Service Lines in Lincoln County Rural Water System
Lincoln County Rural Water System serves about 5,965 people across rural South Dakota. If you're concerned about lead in your water, here's what you need to know about this utility.
What we know about lead here
The utility has not yet completed a full inventory of lead service lines—the pipes that connect homes to the main water line underground. This is not unusual; many rural water systems are still working through this process. An incomplete inventory doesn't mean there's lead in your water—it means the utility hasn't finished checking yet.
Lead service lines are a concern because water sitting in lead pipes can pick up small amounts of lead over time. The risk is highest in homes built before 1986, when lead pipes were still common.
What the utility should be doing
Federal law requires all water systems to:
- Locate and document their lead service lines
- Test water in homes most likely to have lead exposure
- Tell customers about results
- Develop a plan to replace lead lines
Lincoln County Rural Water System is required to complete this work. If you haven't heard from them about lead, that may mean the inventory is still underway.
How to find out about your home
Contact the utility directly. They can tell you:
- Whether your home has a lead service line
- If they've tested your water
- What replacement options exist
- Whether any assistance programs apply
Lincoln County Rural Water System Call or visit their office to ask about the lead service line inventory and request a water test if you're concerned.
If you're worried about your water now
- Use cold tap water for drinking and cooking. Lead is more likely to leach from hot water.
- Flush the tap by running cold water for 30 seconds before using it, especially first thing in the morning.
- Get your water tested through the utility or a certified lab if you want confirmation.
- Talk to your doctor if you have young children and are concerned about exposure. The CDC has guidance on lead and health.
Next steps for residents
- Contact Lincoln County Rural Water System and ask for your home's lead service line status
- Request a free water test if the utility offers one
- If your line is lead, ask about replacement programs—some may offer cost assistance
- Keep records of any testing or work done on your service line
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
How do I know if my house has a lead service line?
Contact Lincoln County Rural Water System and ask them to check your address in their lead service line inventory. They may also send someone to inspect the line where it enters your home. If you can't reach the utility, a licensed plumber can identify the material for a fee.
Is lead in water dangerous?
Lead can be harmful, especially to young children and pregnant people. Talk to your doctor or call the CDC's lead hotline (1-800-232-4636) for health questions specific to your situation.
What should I do if I have a lead service line?
Contact your utility about replacement programs—some offer payment assistance. While you wait, flush your taps before drinking, use cold water for consumption, and consider a certified water filter as a temporary measure.
Will my water bill go up if they replace the lead line?
That depends on the utility's funding sources and your state's rules. Ask Lincoln County Rural Water System about costs and whether any grants or assistance programs can help cover replacement.