PFAS in drinking water has become a pressing concern for residents of Wisconsin. These contaminants are more widespread than previously understood, and Wisconsin is making efforts to assess the magnitude of this problem.
Elevated levels of PFAS, harmful synthetic chemicals, have been detected in Wisconsin’s drinking water, posing health risks. The contamination stems from industries, military bases, and fire training facilities. Wisconsin is working to establish safety standards to address this pressing issue.
This article delves into the reasons behind the contamination, the potential health impacts, and the actions being taken to address the issue. Join us as we explore the challenges Wisconsin faces in ensuring the safety and quality of its drinking water.
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PFAS in Wisconsin Drinking Water
As PFAS contamination becomes an increasing concern nationwide, it’s essential to recognize the impacts it has on Wisconsin’s drinking water. With PFAS detected in drinking water sources across the state, let’s explore which cities are most affected and the consequences for local communities.
What cities have PFAS in drinking water?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been detected in the drinking water of several cities in Wisconsin. Some of the cities affected by PFAS contamination include:
- Marinette and Peshtigo
- Rhinelander
- Town of Campbell (French Island)
- Eau Claire
- Wausau
- Weston
- Rib Mountain
- Rothschild
- Madison
- Milwaukee
- Marshfield
- Mosinee
The contamination sources vary, but they can often be traced back to industries, military bases, fire training facilities, and airports where PFAS-containing products are used.
What is Wisconsin doing about PFAS contamination?
Wisconsin has taken several steps to address the issue of PFAS contamination in drinking water. Here are some key actions the state has undertaken:
- On August 1, 2022, Wisconsin revised its safe drinking water code (ch. NR 809 Wis. Adm. Code) to include standards for two PFAS compounds: perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS).
- The new Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) standards are set at 70 parts per trillion (ppt) for each contaminant individually or combined.
- The process of adding these new MCLs involved public input, economic impact analysis, and legislative approval, taking 30 months to complete.
If MCLs are exceeded, a corrective action plan must be implemented to maintain protection of public health, welfare, and safety in drinking water. This proactive approach aims to reduce PFAS exposure and protect the health of Wisconsin’s residents.
Overview of PFAS
What are PFAS?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances are a group of human-made chemicals that have been used in various industries since the 1940s. PFAS are known for their heat, water, and oil resistance, making them suitable for a wide range of applications. Some common uses of PFAS include:
- Non-stick cookware
- Stain-resistant carpets and fabrics
- Water-repellent clothing
- Food packaging
- Firefighting foams
There are thousands of different PFAS compounds, but the most well-known and widely studied are perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS).
How do PFAS get into drinking water?
PFAS can enter drinking water through various pathways, such as industrial discharges, firefighting foam usage, and wastewater treatment plants. The table below highlights some common sources of PFAS contamination in drinking water:
| Source | Description |
| Industrial facilities | PFAS can be released into the environment through manufacturing processes, waste disposal, and spills at facilities that use PFAS-containing materials. |
| Firefighting foam | Aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) used for firefighting contain PFAS, and their use can lead to contamination of nearby water sources. |
| Wastewater treatment plants | PFAS can enter the environment through treated wastewater discharge, as conventional treatment methods do not effectively remove PFAS from the water. |
| Landfills | PFAS-containing products and waste can leach PFAS into groundwater when disposed of in landfills. |
| Military bases and airports | PFAS-containing firefighting foams have been used for fire training and emergency response at military bases and airports, resulting in contamination of nearby water sources. |
Once released into the environment, PFAS can persist for a long time due to their chemical stability, eventually contaminating water sources and entering the drinking water supply.
Health effects of PFAS
Exposure to PFAS has been associated with various adverse health effects. According to WebMD, some potential health concerns linked to PFAS exposure include:
- Developmental problems in fetuses and infants
- Weakened immune systems
- Hormonal disruption
- Increased cholesterol levels
- Increased risk of certain cancers
It is essential to understand that the health effects of PFAS may vary depending on the specific compound, duration of exposure, and individual factors. Research on PFAS and their potential health impacts is ongoing, but the existing evidence highlights the need for efforts to minimize exposure and protect public health.
PFAS Drinking Water Standards
Drinking water standards serve as a vital tool to establish the consensus on the acceptable levels of harmful contaminants, like PFAS, that can be safely consumed. These standards enable us to assess the safety of our water and food supplies.
What is the standard for PFAS in drinking water in Wisconsin?
On August 1, 2022, Wisconsin’s safe drinking water code ch. NR 809 Wis. Adm. Code was revised to include standards for two new compounds in the PFAS group, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS).
The Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for these chemicals was set at 70 parts per trillion (ppt) for each contaminant individually or combined. This new standard was the result of a 30-month process that involved public input, economic impact analysis, and legislative approval. However, it’s important to note that the state currently has no enforceable limits for the other four PFAS identified by the EPA.
The following table summarizes Wisconsin’s current standards for PFAS.
| Standard / Guidance | Matrix | PFOA | PFOS |
| SWQC | Surface Water | 0.020 | 0.008 |
| MCL | Drinking Water | 0.070 | 0.070 |
What is the EPA drinking water standard for PFAS?
While Wisconsin has set its MCL for PFOA and PFOS at 70 ppt, the EPA has significantly lowered its Health Advisory Level for these chemicals. The new advisory levels have been reduced from 70 ppt combined to just 0.004 ppt for PFOA and 0.02 ppt for PFOS, which is around 17 thousand times lower than the previous values.
In February 2022, the Wisconsin Natural Resources Board approved a drinking water standard of 70 ppt for PFOA and PFOS individually and combined, which is well above the EPA’s draft regulation.
To learn more about the EPA’s perspective on PFAS in drinking water, you can visit this page on their website.
What Can I Do About PFAS?
Fortunately, there are several measures you can take to protect yourself and your family from the harmful effects of PFAS, commonly known as “forever chemicals.”
PFAS treatment methods for homeowners
There are various treatment methods available to remove PFAS from your drinking water. Here’s a list of the most effective options:
- Activated carbon filters: These filters use a process called adsorption to remove contaminants like PFAS from water. They’re available in various forms, such as under-sink units or whole-house filtration systems.
- Reverse osmosis (RO) systems: RO systems force water through a semi-permeable membrane, which can effectively remove PFAS and other contaminants. They are typically installed under the sink and require professional installation.
- Anion exchange (AIX) systems: AIX systems use resins to exchange negatively charged ions (anions) in water, which can help remove PFAS. These systems can be more expensive and may require professional installation.
Here’s a comparison table of the three treatment methods:
| Treatment Method | Effectiveness | Cost | Installation |
| Activated Carbon | High | Low | Easy |
| Reverse Osmosis | Very High | Medium | Professional |
| Anion Exchange | High | High | Professional |
How to test for PFAS
To determine if your drinking water contains PFAS, you can:
- Contact your local water utility: They can provide information on PFAS testing and whether they’ve detected PFAS in the water supply.
- Hire a certified laboratory: If you have a private well or want to test your water independently, you can hire a certified laboratory to conduct the testing. Make sure the lab is certified for PFAS analysis by your state or the EPA.
Stay informed
Staying informed about PFAS in your area is crucial for ensuring the safety of your drinking water. Here are some tips to help you stay updated:
- Regularly check your local water utility’s website or contact them for information on PFAS testing results and any actions they’re taking to address contamination.
- Monitor news and updates from the EPA and your state’s environmental agency to stay informed about PFAS regulations and guidelines.
- Participate in local community meetings, workshops, or webinars that focus on PFAS and water quality issues. This can help you stay informed about local concerns and contribute to finding solutions.
FAQs
What states have the worst PFAS?
PFAS contamination is a widespread issue across the United States, but some states have been more heavily impacted than others. States with the most severe contamination problems include:
- Michigan
- North Carolina
- Pennsylvania
- New Jersey
- New York
However, it’s important to remember that PFAS contamination can vary greatly within a state, and new contamination sites are regularly discovered.
How do I know if there are PFAS in my water?
To find out if your drinking water contains PFAS, you can:
- Contact your local water utility: They can provide information on PFAS testing and whether they’ve detected PFAS in the water supply.
- Test your water independently: If you have a private well or want to test your water independently, you can hire a certified laboratory to conduct the testing. Make sure the lab is certified for PFAS analysis by your state or the EPA.
Where is PFAS found in the United States?
PFAS contamination can be found in various locations across the United States, with higher concentrations often detected near:
- Military bases and airports that have used firefighting foams containing PFAS.
- Industrial facilities that manufacture or use PFAS-containing products.
- Landfills and wastewater treatment plants, as they can release PFAS into the environment.
Final Take
Understanding the presence and impact of PFAS in drinking water is crucial for public health. While Wisconsin has taken steps to establish drinking water standards and address PFAS contamination, there is still work to be done.
As a resident, it’s essential to stay informed, test your water supply, and consider treatment options to protect yourself and your family from these harmful contaminants. By staying proactive and vigilant, we can work together to ensure safe drinking water for all.