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HomeEnvironmental ImpactsMillions of Lower 48 States Residents May Depend on PFAS-Contaminated Groundwater for...

Millions of Lower 48 States Residents May Depend on PFAS-Contaminated Groundwater for Drinking Water

“PFAS Contamination in US Groundwater: What You Need to Know in 2022”

A recent study conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has revealed alarming findings regarding the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in untreated groundwater across the United States. According to the study, roughly 71 to 95 million people, representing more than one-fifth of the population, may be relying on groundwater with detectable concentrations of PFAS for their drinking water.

Lead author of the study, Andrea Tokranov, a USGS research hydrologist, emphasized the widespread contamination of PFAS in groundwater used for public and private drinking water supplies. The study provides the first national estimates of PFAS in untreated groundwater that serves as a water supply for public and private wells, shedding light on the potential impact on millions of Americans.

To help consumers, regulators, and water suppliers understand the risks associated with PFAS contamination, USGS has published an online, interactive map that allows users to view estimates of the probability of the presence of PFAS in groundwater. The study’s findings are intended for use at national, regional, and state scales to inform strategic water resources planning and guide future studies.

PFAS are a class of synthetic chemical compounds used in various everyday applications, known for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks to humans. Exposure to certain PFAS can lead to adverse health effects, prompting the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish legally enforceable maximum contaminant levels for six types of PFAS found in drinking water.

The study analyzed 1,238 groundwater samples collected by USGS scientists to determine the factors influencing PFAS occurrence, such as urban development and well depth. The research team developed a detailed machine learning model to identify geographic areas with a higher likelihood of contamination and estimate the population potentially affected by PFAS contamination.

While public water supplies are regulated by the EPA and some states, individuals relying on private wells may not have the same access to testing and treatment. The study highlights the importance of prioritizing areas for future sampling to ensure the safety of drinking water, especially for private well users who may be unaware of potential contamination.

Overall, the study underscores the urgent need for continued monitoring and mitigation efforts to address PFAS contamination in groundwater and safeguard public health. The findings serve as a crucial resource for policymakers, water suppliers, and individuals seeking to protect their communities from the harmful effects of PFAS exposure.

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