An extensive inventory of the Hilton Head Public Service District (PSD) water distribution system found no lead piping in the PSD water distribution system. The inventory was conducted over the course of several years as part of a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) requirement. The PSD used extensive research and field observations to verify pipe materials. Decades-long, routine sampling of the water supplied by the PSD has found no lead in the tap water provided by the PSD. The inventory effort was led by PSD Water Quality Supervisor Sarah Hickman and PSD Project Manager Pete Schuelke, both of whom have been recognized by statewide water industry associations as outstanding water professionals.
“We are extremely pleased with the results of our water system pipe-material verification and inventory, and extremely proud of our entire team that worked diligently on completing this effort,” said PSD General Manager Pete Nardi. “The quality and safety of our drinking water is the PSD’s top priority, 24/7/365. Our lengthy track record of providing quality drinking water is a testament to the dedication and professionalism of the men and women who work on the complex systems that produce, treat, and monitor our drinking water. It also is the result of the ongoing support of our customers, our Board of Commissioners, and our island, which is our privilege to serve.”
The PSD used a combination of field observations of pipe materials on both utility and customer water lines, as well as extensive research of building records, in verifying pipe materials and completing the inventory ahead of an October 2024 U.S. EPA deadline that was required of all public water systems the PSD’s size and larger. The inventory found no known lead piping on the customer side of PSD water meters. The inventory was not an inspection of all private plumbing inside homes and businesses. Any PSD customer wishing to have their water sampled for lead is welcome to call the PSD at (843) 681-5525 or email [email protected].
