Lead Service Line Inventory: TRAVIS COUNTY WCID 17

What you need to know

TRAVIS COUNTY WCID 17 serves about 45,165 people in Texas. The utility draws its water from surface sources.

Current inventory status: The utility has not yet completed a lead service line inventory—meaning they haven't finished documenting which pipes in the system contain lead. This is required under federal law, and utilities nationwide are working through this process on different timelines.

Why this matters

A lead service line is the pipe that connects your home's water meter to the main water line under the street. If your line is made of lead, water can pick up lead as it travels to your tap, especially in homes with older plumbing.

Lead exposure carries real health risks, especially for children and pregnant people. The CDC has information on lead in drinking water and health effects.

What's happening now

Federal law (the Lead and Copper Rule) requires water utilities to identify and replace lead service lines. TRAVIS COUNTY WCID 17 is in the process of completing this inventory work. Until the inventory is done, the utility won't have a full picture of which homes may be affected.

What you can do

1. Contact your utility directly. TRAVIS COUNTY WCID 17 can tell you whether your specific address has a known lead service line or if your line's status is still being determined. They can also explain any interim steps they recommend while inventory work is underway.

2. Reduce lead exposure at home. While waiting for system-wide action: - Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking or cooking (especially in the morning) - Use cold water for cooking and baby formula (hot water leaches more lead) - Get your water tested if you're concerned

3. Stay informed. Check back here periodically—this page updates when utilities complete their inventories and share replacement timelines.

Next steps for residents

• Call or email TRAVIS COUNTY WCID 17 and ask about lead service line status at your address
• If you're concerned about health effects, talk to your doctor or pediatrician
• Visit the EPA's Lead and Copper Rule page for more context on the national inventory effort
• Consider getting your water tested by a certified lab if you want detailed results

```json [ { "q": "Does TRAVIS COUNTY WCID 17 have lead in the water?", "a": "The utility is still completing its inventory of lead service lines, so a full picture isn't available yet. Lead would come from service line pipes, not the water source itself. Contact your utility to ask about your specific address." }, { "q": "How do I know if I have a lead service line?", "a": "Call TRAVIS COUNTY WCID 17 and provide your address—they can check their records. You can also do a visual inspection: use a magnet on the pipe outside your home where it enters the ground; if it doesn't stick, the pipe may be lead (though a professional can confirm)." }, { "q": "Is it safe to drink tap water from TRAVIS COUNTY WCID 17?", "a": "The utility is required to meet federal safety standards. If you want extra peace of mind while the inventory is underway, you can run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking and use cold water for cooking, or get your water tested by a certified lab." }, { "q": "When will TRAVIS COUNTY WCID 17 replace lead service lines?", "a": "The utility must first complete its inventory before announcing a replacement timeline. Contact them directly for updates on their progress and any plans they've developed."