DELHI — The village of Delhi Water System has issued a drinking water warning after more than 10% of 20 samples collected in August and September exceeded the state and federal lead action level of 15 parts per billion (0.015 mg/L).
The results do not mean that all village properties have elevated lead levels. Lead can enter drinking water through lead service lines, plumbing and fixtures, and individual properties can have different results.
Lead exposure can cause serious health effects, particularly for infants, children and pregnant women. Children exposed to lead can experience effects on learning, behavior and attention, while adults face increased risks of cardiovascular, kidney and nervous-system problems.
What residents can do
Residents concerned about lead in their water are advised to:
• Use a water filter certified to remove lead and replace cartridges as directed.
• Regularly clean faucet aerators, where sediment and lead particles can collect.
• Use cold tap water for drinking, cooking and preparing infant formula. Boiling does not remove lead.
• Flush household plumbing before drinking if water has been sitting in the pipes. Residents can call the village at 607-746-2258 for guidance on appropriate flushing times.
• Contact the village or a licensed plumber to determine whether their service line contains lead or galvanized pipe.
• Contact the village about construction or maintenance work that could disturb a lead service line.
• Parents and caregivers concerned about exposure can contact a family doctor or pediatrician about having children tested for lead.
Village response
The village said it is assessing its existing corrosion-control treatment, which is designed to reduce the corrosion of pipes and plumbing that can release lead into drinking water.
The village is also removing lead service lines, with completion targeted for the end of 2028. Additional lead and water-quality monitoring will be conducted, and lead monitoring will be increased to determine the extent of the problem.
The village said it will provide additional public education to customers by Nov. 29, 2026.
Residents can contact the Village of Delhi Water System at 607-746-2258 or visit villageofdelhiny.gov. The New York State Department of Health can be reached at 1-800-458-1158, ext. 27650, or 518-402-7650 from outside New York.
