Since the Flint, Michigan, water crisis, public attention to the health effects of lead (Pb) and copper (Cu) in drinking water has increased. Unlike large water systems, small and medium-sized water systems are not required to provide corrosion control treatment under the U.S. EPA’s Lead and Copper Rule (LCR). About 93% of Iowa’s public water systems are either small or very small water systems. Corrosion control treatment is only required in these smaller systems if the action levels for Pb and Cu are exceeded. The lack of continuous corrosion control treatment endangers the public health of consumers in these communities. Several water quality parameters, such as high chloride levels, low pH levels, high nitrate in pipes, household piping materials, type of water source, and treatment methods, are suspected to contribute to elevated concentrations of Pb and Cu. To explore potential causes of elevated concentrations of Pb and Cu, we are analyzing available Pb and Cu data for small community water systems in Iowa. Our goal is to provide a publicly accessible database as well as evaluate potential causes of elevated concentrations of Pb and Cu in Iowa drinking water. We hope the analysis will help inform and educate communities on how to keep their drinking water safe.

Snapshot of lead and copper in Iowa drinking water

255th National Meeting (2018)

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.