Lead Service Lines at MODEL IRRIGATION DIST #18
MODEL IRRIGATION DIST #18 serves about 7,900 people in Washington. Like all US water systems, it is required by federal law to maintain an inventory of lead service lines—the pipes that connect the water main to individual homes.
What we know right now
This water system has not yet completed and made public a lead service line inventory. That means we don't have data on how many lead pipes may be in the system, if any exist at all.
This is not unusual. Many smaller water systems across the country are still working through the inventory process. The EPA's requirements give utilities time to gather this information, which often means inspecting thousands of connections or reviewing old installation records.
How to find out about your home
The best way to learn whether your home has a lead service line is to contact MODEL IRRIGATION DIST #18 directly. You can ask:
- Does my address have a lead service line?
- Do you have an inventory of service lines in my area?
- When will the inventory be publicly available?
Keep in mind that even if your home has a lead service line, you can take steps to reduce exposure—like running cold water before using it for drinking or cooking, and flushing fixtures that haven't been used for hours.
About the water source
MODEL IRRIGATION DIST #18 draws its water from groundwater sources. Groundwater systems generally have lower lead risk than surface water systems because lead contamination is less common underground, though it can still occur in pipes and plumbing fixtures.
What happens next
Water systems nationwide are under increasing pressure to identify and replace lead service lines, especially after the EPA strengthened the Lead and Copper Rule in 2021. Funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is available to help systems pay for replacements—though this utility has not yet reported receiving those funds through LeadPipeLookup.
Next steps for residents
- Contact your water utility to ask directly whether your address has a lead service line.
- Check for visible signs like blue-green or blue-black staining around faucets (a sign of corroded copper pipes, which may indicate corrosion of other pipes).
- Install a certified filter if you're concerned about lead, while you wait for inventory or replacement data. Filters marked "lead removal" with NSF/ANSI certification work.
- Learn about free or low-cost lead testing options from your local health department or your state drinking water program.
Key figures
| Total inventoried lines | 0 |
|---|---|
| BIL/IIJA funding received | — |
| Replacement plan status | Not reported |
| Utility's LCRR inventory | Not provided |
Frequently asked
Can I get lead tested in my water?
Yes. Contact MODEL IRRIGATION DIST #18 to ask about free or low-cost testing, or purchase a certified lead test kit online. The EPA also has guidance on accredited labs at epa.gov/lead.
How do I know if I have a lead service line?
Call your water utility and ask about your specific address. They may have records of when your line was installed. A plumber can also inspect the line for signs of lead (dull gray color when scratched).
Is lead service line water safe to drink?
Lead is a serious health concern, especially for children and pregnant people. If you suspect lead exposure, talk to your doctor or pediatrician and contact your water utility. The CDC has resources on health effects at cdc.gov/lead.
Will my water utility replace my lead service line?
Many utilities offer replacement programs, often at no cost to residents. Contact MODEL IRRIGATION DIST #18 directly to ask about their replacement plan and timeline.