Minnesota residents who get their drinking water from a community public water system can find out if their system's water has any level of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) through an interactive online dashboard from Minnesota Department of Health (MDH).
According to the results of statewide testing reflected in the new dashboard, the vast majority of community water systems tested have either no detections of PFAS or levels that are below the current state levels of health concern. Health officials say the statewide testing and dashboard will provide a baseline of information to help communities manage any changes in PFAS occurrence or health risk understanding in the future.
PFAS, commonly called "forever chemicals," are extremely stable and do not break down in the environment. Higher levels of exposure to PFAS are associated with a wide range of human health effects. These include higher cholesterol, changes to liver function, reduced immune response, thyroid disease, and, in the case of PFOA, increased kidney and testicular cancer.
MDH began a project in 2021 to test for PFAS in community water systems across the state. Testing and monitoring will be ongoing through 2022. Minnesota joins other states such as Michigan, Ohio, and Illinois that have tested drinking water statewide for PFAS. MDH has prioritized sampling in systems that are most vulnerable to PFAS contamination to address the highest potential public health risks first.
Supported in part by the Clean Water Fund.
Categories: Minnesota, Government & Policy, Rural Lifestyle