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CHEYENNE, WYOMING - The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (WDEQ) is informing public water systems that a new policy from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 8 was recently adopted, providing critical guidance for identifying and replacing lead service lines across the state.
The EPA Region 8 policy, effective December 15, 2025, outlines the requirements of the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), a federal regulation designed to significantly reduce lead exposure to drinking water. Under this rule, all public water systems in Wyoming must develop a comprehensive baseline inventory of service lines and connectors by November 1, 2027.
Key Provisions for Wyoming Water Systems
The EPA Region 8 policy establishes a step-by-step process for water systems to move from "unknown" material classifications to verified data. Key highlights include:
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Baseline Inventory Deadline: Water systems must submit an updated baseline inventory by November 1, 2027, which includes information on both service lines and connectors.
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Approved Investigation Methods: To avoid costly system-wide excavations, the policy approves several information sources and methods, including:
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Simple System Wide Statistical Method (SWSM): A random sampling approach to verify record reliability.
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Statistical Predictive Modeling (SPM): Using common characteristics to predict materials in specific areas.
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Customer Self-Identification: Guidelines for residents to assist by providing photos and visual inspection data of their own service lines.
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“Other Sources of Information” for Records Review: Documentation of affidavits from current water system personnel, licensed plumbers, experienced and retired water operators, as well as plumbing code inspectors.
Public water systems are encouraged to continue their historical record reviews, engage with past and present water system personnel, and collaborate with their communities to fill data gaps. Additional technical and financial assistance is available through EPA Region 8 and the WDEQ State Revolving Funds (SRF) Program.
The WDEQ reminds the public that the 2027 Intended Use Plans for SRF loans are currently open for new projects to register until January 16, 2026.
For more information on the Lead and Copper Rule and to view the full policy document, please visit the Office of State Lands and Investments website or wyriskit.com.
For questions regarding the Lead Service Line Inventory and Replacement Policy or related submittal requirements, please contact Erica Wenzel, EPA Region 8 LCR and LSL Specialist, at wenzel.erica@epa.gov or (303) 312-6411.
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