At The District, we strive to provide our customers with safe and clean drinking water. Recently, the issue of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) has gained attention due to its potentially harmful effects on human health. As a result, new regulations have been proposed to address this issue.
PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in various industries and products, such as firefighting foam, stain-resistant coatings, and nonstick cookware. These chemicals are persistent in the environment and do not break down easily, leading to their accumulation in soil, water, and even in the bodies of animals and humans.
Studies have shown that exposure to PFAS can have adverse health effects, including developmental issues, liver damage, and cancer. Due to these risks, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established new regulations for PFAS in drinking water.
If approved, the proposed regulations would require water utilities to monitor and report on the levels of PFAS in drinking water. The maximum allowable limit for two of the most common PFAS compounds, PFOS and PFOA, has been set at 4 parts per trillion (ppt). If finalized, public water systems will be required to test for PFAS at least once every three years, and those with levels above the allowable limit will need to take corrective action.
The District is committed to complying with these new regulations and ensuring that our customers have access to safe and clean drinking water. We will continue to test the water we provide to the Village of McComb and work with our six water service providers (the cities of Toledo, Bowling Green, Fostoria, Napoleon, Oregon, and Perrysburg) to determine the levels of PFAS in our water supply.
In conclusion, the proposed regulations for PFAS in drinking water are an important step toward protecting public health. As a water utility, we are committed to complying with these regulations and ensuring that our customers have access to safe and clean drinking water. We encourage our customers to stay informed about PFAS and to reach out to us if they have any concerns or questions.
Jerry Greiner, President
March 31, 2023