The City of Minot recently sent letters to a number of homes and businesses, seeking information about water service lines.

In compliance with Environmental Protection Agency regulations, the city has been gathering data on the types of materials that make up the water service lines inside homes and businesses, according to information from the city. Letters recently were sent to owners of properties for which the city is unsure of the service line material.

The letter includes guidelines to help identify line materials and how to report that information to the city. The EPA has developed an online step-by-step guide to identify whether materials are made using lead, plastic, copper or steel. A link is included in the letter. Property owners also can get help by contacting the Public Works Department.

Lead has been linked to serious health effects, including decreases in IQ and attention span in children and increased risks of heart disease, high blood pressure and kidney or nervous system problems in adults, according to the letter to property owners.

High levels of lead typically exist in copper pipe with lead solder made or installed before 1986. Lead particles can attach to the surface of galvanized pipes and enter drinking water over time. Shorter pipes that connect the lead service line to the main or faucets also can be potential sources of lead.

The City of Minot is developing a lead service line replacement program and is looking into financing solutions, including grants. The city asks that property owners planning to replace a portion of a service line notify Public Works.