Efforts continue to locate lead pipes in Fostoria

FOSTORIA — The city of Fostoria, in partnership with the Environmental Protection Agency, is continuing its efforts to identify all service lines that contain lead in the public water system.The work is being done as part of the national EPA's "Get the Lead Out" initiative, which aims to eliminate all lead service pipes.The city said in an announcement today that while many residents have already reported their service-line material to the city or had water department personnel check it, about 720 properties remain unverified and, in turn, could be dug into in the search for lead pipes.The city said that with two rounds of door-to-door outreach in the last several months it is now ready to take the next step by "potholing," which means digging small holes to expose underground pipes. The city said it is working with a contractor to begin potholing where service-line material is still unknown.Residents, however, can still avoid potholing on their property by submitting their service-line material information directly to the water department or by arranging for a free appointment with the water department to have their service lines checked.Those seeking more information should contact Public Works Superintendent Amber Mengert by calling 419-435-2486.The city said it will continue to keep residents informed about the project as it progresses.