New USGS Study Reveals Widespread PFAS Contamination in Groundwater

A recent study by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) provides the first national estimates of PFAS contamination in untreated groundwater, which supplies both public and private drinking water wells.

The research offers a predictive model that helps identify areas most likely to be affected by PFAS, a group of chemicals known as "forever chemicals" due to their persistence in the environment.

The study also includes an interactive online map that shows the likelihood of PFAS presence in groundwater across different regions.

However, these estimates are not intended for individual household use and don’t account for water treatment actions by states or municipalities.

The only way to confirm PFAS contamination is through testing.

PFAS have been linked to health risks by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and they are commonly found in products like non-stick cookware, fast food packaging, and fire-fighting foam.

Because PFAS don’t break down easily, they can accumulate in drinking water, posing a long-term risk.

Key Findings:

• Widespread contamination: The study reveals significant PFAS contamination in U.S. groundwater, affecting both public and private drinking water supplies.

• At-risk populations: The largest populations at risk are in Florida, California, Michigan, and several other states, with specific regions like Massachusetts and Connecticut showing high percentages of people who could be affected.

• Private vs. public wells: Public wells, typically deeper, and private wells are at different levels of risk, with private wells often being more vulnerable due to less regulation and fewer treatment options.

• Predictive model: The USGS used a machine learning model based on 1,238 groundwater samples and factors like urban development and well depth to estimate PFAS occurrence.

While this study offers broad national estimates, it does not include data on the specific types or concentrations of PFAS, which can only be determined through testing.

The EPA has established limits for six types of PFAS in drinking water, but many more exist, and not all are detectable with current methods.

This research will help prioritize areas for future water testing and inform better planning for water safety.

The full study, published in Science, can be accessed for more details.