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Lead and Copper Rule

In 1991, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) introduced the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR) to help reduce lead and copper levels in drinking water by requiring water systems to use corrosion control measures. Corrosion in pipes can cause metals like lead and copper to leach into the water. To prevent this, water treatment plants add safe chemicals to slow down pipe deterioration. Effective corrosion control helps minimize lead exposure in drinking water.

In 2018, Michigan revised its Lead and Copper Rule, adding stricter requirements to further reduce lead and copper levels in the drinking water.

The Lead and Copper Rule focuses on lead because of lead’s potent toxicity, especially to children. Copper is an essential nutrient and is beneficial at appropriate doses, but exposure to too much copper can adversely impact health. The Rule establishes:

Water Sampling & Annual Results

The updated LCR changed how water samples need to be collected. Both the first and fifth liters of tap water must be collected in homes with lead service lines. The first liter shows water from household fixtures, and the fifth liter likely reflects water from the lead service line. 

Water testing graphic

 

As of January 1, 2025, Michigan's allowable lead level was lowered from 15 parts per billion (ppb) to 12 ppb. In October 2024, the EPA lowered the limit to 10 ppb, and Michigan is expected to review and adopt this change in the coming years.

In 2025, 50 homes were sampled in the city.

The final water sampling results did not exceed the allowable lead or copper levels. The water testing results for 2025 are 7 parts per billion (ppb) for lead and 0.0 parts per million (ppm) for copper.

Historical Lead Testing Results

Lead testing results chart

Contact the Grand Rapids Water System

Phone
311 or 616-456-3000

Fax
616-456-4466

Email
water@grcity.us

Location
City Hall
300 Monroe Ave NW
Grand Rapids, MI 49503