The Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) is a key regulation established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to protect public health by limiting the levels of lead and copper in drinking water. Enacted in 1991 under the Safe Drinking Water Act, the rule sets action levels for these metals, requiring water systems to monitor and control corrosion in pipes to prevent contamination. The Village of DeForest is diligent in providing the best drinking water to all its residents and visitors. Lead and copper can leach into drinking water from aging infrastructure, posing serious health risks, particularly for children and pregnant women. Compliance with the LCR is crucial to ensuring safe drinking water.
Timeline
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Timeline item 1 - complete
1991
The EPA created the Lead and Copper Rule. Over the years they’ve increased the requirements. EPA: Lead and Copper Rule Improvements
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Timeline item 2 - complete
May 10, 2024
DeForest water lateral service line inventory begins - DeForest residents receive a letter from the DeForest Water Utility regarding water line inspection. DeForest Water Utility Communication (PDF)
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Timeline item 3 - active
October 8, 2024
The EPA issued a final rule requiring drinking water systems across the country to identify and replace lead pipes within 10 years.
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Timeline item 4 - complete
October 14, 2024
DeForest Water submitted Service Line Inventory Review to State of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
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Timeline item 5 - complete
October 14, 2024
Service line inventory was published on the Village of DeForest website for residents to view.
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Timeline item 6 - complete
October 16, 2024
Due date to submit Service Line Inventory Review to State of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
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Timeline item 7 - complete
November 14, 2024
DeForest Water notified State of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of people served at service connections with a lead, galvanized, or unknown service line.
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Timeline item 8 - complete
November 15, 2024
DeForest Water notified residents with lead, galvanized, or unknown service lines. Those with an unknown service line were asked to call for an inspection to determine their service material.
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Timeline item 9 - complete
January 24, 2025
DeForest Water is notified an incomplete form was submitted to the State of Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). DeForest Water Non-Compliance Notice (PDF)
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Timeline item 10 - complete
February 21, 2024
A Tier 2 Public Notice (PDF) was mailed to residents regarding the Failure to Accurately Fill Out an Initial Service Line Inventory.
In compliance with EPA and DNR regulations, our Water Utility is conducting a comprehensive inventory of all water service lines within the community. This inventory aims to identify any lead, galvanized, plastic or copper service lines in the system to ensure the continued safety and quality of our drinking water.
The DeForest Water Utility is conducting water lateral inspections. If you haven't scheduled yours yet, call today to set up your appointment.
