Free Lead Testing for Public Schools and Child Care Facilities
Idaho Department of Environmental Quality offers free scientific lead testing and analysis for drinking water in public schools and child care facilities to identify and address potential lead exposure risks.
Funder: Idaho Department of Environmental Quality
Due Dates: June 30, 2026 (program funds available through this date)
Funding Amounts: Free laboratory analysis, sample containers, and shipping for lead testing in eligible facilities; no cash awards.
Summary: Provides free lead testing in drinking water for Idaho public schools and child care facilities not regulated as public water systems.
Key Information: Program is for voluntary lead testing only; remediation support may be available if high lead levels are detected.
Description
This program, administered by the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) with support from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), offers free lead testing for public schools and child care facilities in Idaho that are not regulated as public water systems. The initiative provides EPA-certified laboratory analysis through the Idaho Bureau of Laboratories (IBL), including free sample containers and shipping. The primary goal is to help educational facilities identify and address sources of lead in their drinking water, ensuring safer environments for children and staff. Test results are shared with both the facility and the public, and DEQ offers follow-up guidance and potential remediation assistance if elevated lead levels are found.
