PFAS - Overview
What is PFAS?
According to the EPA, Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are a family of thousands of harmful synthetic chemicals that are extremely persistent in the environment and in our bodies.
Where is PFAS Found?
PFAS compound can be found in:
Drinking water supplies, including private wells.
Food packaged in PFAS-contaminated materials, processed with equipment that used PFAS, or grown in PFAS-contaminated water.
Commercial household products including stain- and water-repellent fabrics, nonstick products (e.g., Teflon), polishes, waxes, paints, cleaning products, and fire-fighting foams.
Workplace, including production facilities or industries (e.g. chrome plating, electronics manufacturing process, oil recovery, paper mill) that use PFAS issues.
Living organisms, including fish, animals, and humans.
What’s the Problem with PFAS?
There is mounting evidence that certain PFAS contamination is particularly dangerous to humans as the toxic substances can interfere with the body’s hormones and immune system and may play a role in certain cancers. Perfluoroalkyl and Perfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) is a harmful chemical that has many health concerns. Several types of cancer, liver, and kidney problems, along with developmental issues are just to name a few.
Currently the Marathon County Health Department has notified some homeowners with private wells that they should get their water tested for PFAS contamination. Some private wells in Marathon County are over the new Federal standards and are contaminated with PFAS.
If you are concerned about the PFAS levels, please reach out to Daniel Varline at 715-675-7777 ext.23.
Current EPA Standards for PFAS Related Drinking Water Standards
On April 10, 2024, the Environmental Protection Agency (the EPA) implemented its rule for regulating the amount of six different PFAS chemicals for enforcing the Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCL). These levels as well as other information can be found by clicking here.
