Copper Development Association Offers Free Lead Service Line Replacement Training

Expert-led program provides practical guidance on proper copper service line installation techniques and materials

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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The Copper Development Association is now offering a free, expert-led educational initiative called "Do It Proper with Copper" to help communities successfully plan and execute lead service line replacement (LSLR) projects. The training provides practical guidance on the proper installation of copper service lines, including techniques, materials science, and industry-recognized best practices.

Why it matters

With the EPA's recent finalization of the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI) mandating the replacement of all lead service lines within 10 years, access to high-quality training on copper service line installation fundamentals is increasingly essential for utilities, municipalities, and contractors preparing to ramp up their LSLR efforts.

The details

The training covers underground installation techniques, connection methods, and material science to ensure copper service lines are installed correctly the first time, boosting efficiency, supporting compliance, and providing long-term reliability. The program is tailored for utility contractors, engineering crews, water utilities, and city/municipal leaders responsible for planning, managing, and overseeing LSLR projects.

  • The EPA finalized the LCRI in October 2024, mandating the replacement of all lead service lines within 10 years.
  • The 2021 Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocated $15 billion for lead service line replacement, with additional funding announced in 2025.

The players

Copper Development Association

A U.S.-based not-for-profit association of the global copper industry, committed to promoting the proper use of copper materials in sustainable, efficient applications.

Harold Moret

CDA Project Manager and Piping Applications Specialist.

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

The federal agency that recently finalized the Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), a critical regulatory update to strengthen protections against lead exposure in drinking water.

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What they’re saying

“When copper service lines are installed correctly the first time, communities gain long-term reliability and peace of mind.”

— Harold Moret, CDA Project Manager and Piping Applications Specialist

What’s next

Interested organizations can complete a short interest form on CDA's website to receive follow-up from a CDA expert and schedule a training session that fits their timeline.

The takeaway

As municipalities and utilities across the country prepare to ramp up their lead service line replacement efforts, this free, expert-led training program from the Copper Development Association provides the practical knowledge and tools crews need to install copper service lines correctly, ensuring long-term reliability and compliance with evolving regulatory requirements.