PFAS in Madison

Recent news stories about drinking water contamination in Madison related to PFAS (per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are deeply concerning. PFAS are a family of substances found in common household products such as water repellent fabrics, polishes, waxes, paints, cleaning products and fire-fighting foams. The likely source of PFAS contamination at Well #15 is the firefighting foam used to support aircraft rescue and firefighting operations for Dane County Regional Airport, including training exercises. The fire suppression foam used is mandated for civil airports under FAA regulation. In 2016, the Air National Guard discontinued use of PFAS foam for training. Madison Water Utility announced Well #15 will be shut down at least until they receive health standard recommendations from the Department of Health Services later this spring.

The national concern over the emergence of PFAS in drinking water has led the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to determine if additional regulation is needed to protect public health. Currently, the EPA health advisory threshold is a combined 70 parts per trillion (ppt) applicable to two members of the PFAS family of chemicals, PFOS and PFOA. The level at Well #15 is less than 12 ppt. The EPA process will likely take years to evaluate groundwater or soil standards so I am working to determine legislative changes needed for Wisconsin to have a drinking water standard, including other contaminants beyond the two substances identified by the EPA.

Madison Water Utility increased the frequency of testing and expanded its analysis to include a wider variety of PFAS substances. The Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs, together with the City of Madison, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and DCRA are working cooperatively to identify potential PFAS sources and define the extent of any contaminated areas. PFAS contamination needs to be taken seriously. Shutting down Well #15 is a prudent start.