All community water suppliers must comply with the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Lead and Copper Rule (LCR). The purpose of the rule is to protect public health by minimizing lead (Pb) and copper (Cu) in drinking water, primarily by reducing the corrosiveness of the water. Lead and copper enter drinking water mainly from the corrosion of plumbing materials that contain lead and copper.

The Altoona Water Authority (AWA) conducted its most recent lead and copper sampling in July 2016. Analysis for lead and copper was conducted at customers’ taps throughout the AWA’s service area.

The results show that the AWA’s water quality continues to meet all State and Federal standards. The AWA successfully passed the most recent round of water quality testing for lead and copper at customers’ taps.

All results were below EPA action levels for both lead and copper. Lead was detected in only one sample at a level far below the EPA Action Level. These results support the effectiveness of the AWA corrosion control program.

Keep reading for an EPA Lead and Copper Rule: A Quick Reference Guide, the 2016 test results, the AWA sample site map and the AWA’s material inventory description.

If you have any questions call Tobias Nagle, Supervisor Water Treatment, Altoona Water Authority, at 814-944- 2320.