Pike County water levels test low for PFAS chemicals

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) and Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) recently released the findings of a study on the forever chemical PFAS in Pennsylvania water systems. The study’s focus on emerging contaminants is part of the state’s push to monitor area water resources.

The study was based on 2019 data collected from 161 streams across the state. It found that 76% of those samples contained at least one type of PFAS chemical.

Luckily for Pike County, the results were nil. No PFAS chemicals were detected, based on the samples taken from the Delaware River near Port Jervis.

“There is still a great deal to learn about these dangerous ‘forever chemicals.’ Pennsylvania has been a proactive leader in addressing issues related to this emerging contaminant, particularly when it comes to drinking water and public safety. This joint venture produced the first study of its kind in the nation, and associates PFAS in surface waters across a state with upstream activities that might be sources of the contaminant. This study has expanded our understanding, and will assist in determining what steps need to be taken in addressing issues associated with this emerging contaminant,” said Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Rich Negrin. “Our findings have already helped, and will continue to help guide DEP’s actions regarding where to focus resources on identifying, tracking, and addressing potential sources of PFAS contamination.”

The highest levels of PFAS chemicals were detected in waterways near Philadelphia. However, looking closer to Pike County, some samples taken from the Lackawaxen River to the north and Little Bush Kill Creek to the south did test positive for PFAS chemicals, but still remain low compared to other areas of the state.

Based on the study, the DEP plans to take more frequent samples in “areas of concern.” The DEP also plans to begin monitoring PFAS discharges from some wastewater treatment plants as well, to help the agency track where the chemicals may be entering the state’s watersheds.

PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals used in a variety of common applications, such as food packaging, non-stick cookware, fire-fighting foams, and materials that are resistant to water grease or stains. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control, studies have suggested that high levels of exposure to PFAS may result in increased cholesterol levels, changes in liver enzymes, decreased vaccine response in children, increased risk of high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia in pregnant women, small decreases in infant birth weights, and increased risk of kidney or testicular cancer.

For a complete look at the USGS/DEP study, visit the following link: bit.ly/3rzXvLx.