PFAS

'Forever Chemials'
 

PFAS Explained
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) is conducting a statewide investigation into the occurrence of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in drinking water. Wisconsin well water is under threat for PFAS contamination and surface water systems like Two Rivers are under review as detectable amounts have been found in Lake Michigan.
 

PFAS Sources
PFAS compounds have been manufactured since the 1940’s for use in everyday items such as nonstick cookware, water-resistant clothing, and have been used widely in firefighting foams. Our nation is facing challenges related to identifying and managing PFAS in our drinking water. Additional information on this topic can be obtained at https://www.epa.gov/pfas and https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/PFAS.
 

PFAS Testing Results
In 2023, Two Rivers Waterworks tested for eighteen PFAS substances in our drinking water. Of these eighteen, six were detected at low levels, including:

• perfluorobutanesulfonic acid (PFBS)
• perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA)
• perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA)
• perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS)
• perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)
• perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS)

PFAS Hazard Index
In order to calculate multiple PFAS substances that occur simultaneously the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) recommends evaluating all PFAS substances in a hazard index. Drinking water may pose a health risk if the hazard index is equal to or above 1. Based on samples taken in July 2023, Two Rivers’ hazard index  was calculated to be 0.268, well below the level of concern.
 

Additional testing will be conducted throughout 2023.  When the results of that testing are received, Two Rivers' hazard index will be recalculated and the results shared with the community. To learn more about the hazard index visit https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/chemical/pfas.htm.