About The Project

The Water Collaborative of Greater New Orleans is conducting a Lead Water Quality Testing Study in the summer of 2024 to address the pressing need for comprehensive data on water quality issues in the city. This study aims to assess the levels of lead and copper in residential tap water across various neighborhoods in Orleans Parish, determining if these levels exceed EPA health standards. Our primary goal is to empower the community by sharing crucial insights into lead exposure and educating individuals on effective mitigation strategies. We will share the findings with the tested residences, the local water utility, state agencies, and community partners to advocate for an equitable service line replacement program.

TWC Community Lead Awareness Program

What Causes Lead in Drinking Water?

Lead in drinking water primarily originates from corrosion of lead-containing plumbing materials, such as pipes, fittings, and fixtures, within the distribution system or household plumbing. It's important to note that the water leaving the water utility is not contaminated with lead. Factors such as the age and condition of infrastructure, water chemistry, and water treatment practices can influence the extent of lead leaching into drinking water. Additionally, disruptions in water flow, such as construction work or changes in pressure, can exacerbate the release of lead particles. Regular monitoring and maintenance of water distribution systems are essential to minimize lead exposure and ensure the safety of drinking water.

Incorporating Community Input

Resident Interest Form

Participant Description

The Water Collaborative is seeking participants for a residential water quality study.

We recognize that the perspectives and experiences of local residents are invaluable in shaping effective and sustainable solutions. By actively engaging with community members, we gain a deeper understanding of their needs, concerns, and information gaps.

Join The Water Collaborative in our mission to better understand the lead and copper challenges in Orleans Parish! Starting May 2024, we are actively seeking residents in Orleans Parish willing to participate in free water quality testing for our study.

Requirements:

Must be an active resident of Orleans Parish.
Have or suspect you have a lead service line, particularly if your residence was built before 1988.
Provide consent for water sample collection, testing, and reporting.
Understand that water must sit for a minimum of 6 hours prior to sample collection.
Applicants must be present at the time of water collection.
Allow TWC Lead Fellows access to the property for sample collection purposes.

Contaminants

Lead

Lead, a toxic heavy metal, contaminates water when plumbing materials like lead pipes, goosenecks, and fixtures corrode. This is particularly concerning because lead poisoning can inflict severe damage on the nervous system, resulting in developmental issues such as learning disabilities and behavioral problems, especially in children. Even minimal exposure to lead over time can result in significant health complications for both children and adults, jeopardizing cognitive development and overall well-being.

The current action level is 15 parts per billion (ppb).

Copper

Copper is an essential mineral that supports a lot of human bodily functions. Exposure to high copper levels, often from contaminated food and water, can result in copper toxicity. Corroded plumbing materials are a common source of copper release into drinking water. Short-term exposure to elevated copper levels may manifest in symptoms like stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Prolonged exposure to high levels of copper in drinking water can escalate to more severe health issues, such as liver damage and neurological disorders.

The current action level is 1.3 parts per million (ppm).

*Michigan: Detroit Free Press.* *Gov. Whitmer unveils $500 million plan to upgrade drinking water, sewage lines.*

*City of Grand Rapids.* *Lead and Copper Rule: The Revised Rule.*

Methodology

We are following the testing procedures established in the upcoming Lead and Copper Rule Revisions. Water in pipes must sit for a minimum of 6 hours before testing. Water samples will be directly collected from residents' kitchen sinks to ensure a representative sample of the water used for cooking and drinking in the household, adhering to the first and fifth liter testing procedure. This sampling approach follows the guidelines outlined in the upcoming Lead and Copper Rule Revisions.

The water collected in the first liter represents the water in contact with the faucet and interior plumbing, while the water collected in the fifth liter samples represents the water that has been sitting in a water service line outside of the house.

View this demonstration to observe the water collection process that will be conducted.

Bipartisan Infrastructure Law

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL), signed by President Biden in 2021, provides over $50 billion to the EPA to enhance the nation's drinking water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure. This represents the most significant federal investment in water systems to date. Additionally, the BIL allocated $15 billion over five years (2022-2026) specifically for the identification and replacement of lead service lines (LSLs).

Louisiana is set to receive $42 million annually. In 2023, the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) applied for $85 million in LSL funding.

Projects funded through the BIL are required to conduct a full replacement of lead service lines, addressing both public and private sections. Full lead service line replacement eliminates the primary cause of lead exposure through drinking water systems.