NOTICE: PFAS TESTING UNDERWAY – CITY OF PORTLAND, MICHIGAN
Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of industrial chemicals that have been used world-wide in common consumer products and manufacturing processes. Two PFAS of concern are perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS). Some PFAS, particularly PFOA and PFOS are very stable in the environment and the substances move easily into water. They also have potential health implications when present in drinking water at concentrations above health advisory levels.
In 2018, the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) initiated the testing of groundwater from all community water supplies in the state for PFAS, including PFOA and PFOS. The testing is being conducted to determine if public health actions are needed. Because of the wide-spread use of PFAS, it is not uncommon to find low levels of PFAS in drinking water supplies. As of October 1, 2018, MDEQ reports groundwater from 744 wells have been tested for PFAS. PFAS has not been detected in 86% of the wells tested.
The City of Portland provides its drinking water supply from four groundwater wells: PW-4, PW-5, PW-6 and PW-7. On September 25, 2018, groundwater from our wells was tested for PFAS. The City anticipates that the laboratory results will be available in 4-6 weeks.
We are working with our Engineer, Fleis & VandenBrink to develop a plan of action in the event PFAS is detected in groundwater sampled from our wells. As additional information and test results become available, they will be reported to you and posted on our website at www.portland-michigan.org.
General information on PFAS in drinking water from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and other resources can be found on our website. If you need additional information, please feel free to contact me directly at (517) 647-2931 or at the email address below.
S. Tutt Gorman
Portland City Manager
citymanager@portland-michigan.org