What can be done to address lead in Massachusetts communities?
Community members, Cities, States and the Federal Government all have a role to play
Communities can:
Find out whether or not you have a lead service line!
Contact your local water department and ask them to test your line. If you would like help contacting your water department or want to get your neighbors to do the same, contact us here. (online volunteer form link) Are you a community member/ organization that wants to lead on the issue of lead in drinking water? Contact us using the form below!
Reduce lead in the tap
- Water that sits in the tap overnight will have the most lead. If you have a lead service line, run your tap for at least three minutes in the morning before you use the water
- Only cook with cold water
- Ask your local water department about additional water testing
Cities should
- Identify and disclose lead service lines
- Commit to covering full cost of lead service line replacement
- Increase drinking water monitoring
- Improve communication with residents
- Interested in existing resources to aid full replacement? Contact us using the form below.
So far, Clean Water has partnered with: Chelsea
In December 2018, Chelsea received the first Clean Water Lead Reduction Leadership award for their commitment to replacing lead service lines quickly and equitably. In November 2018, they successfully applied for and received a loan from the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority. In 2019 they will be replacing lead service lines at no cost to the homeowner.
Clean Water is continuing to partner with the City and Chelsea Greenroots on public engagement and outreach.
State and Federal Action
- Establish lead service line disclosure legislation so that renters and home buyers can make informed decisions about their drinking water and health
- Support legislation that addresses lead in schools
- Increased grant and loan funding for overburdened communities who would benefit from lead service line replacement
- Strengthen existing standards for lead in drinking water
- Existing State Resources:
- MWRA $100 Million Loan Program
- Incentivized Lead Service Line Removal Program