PFAS Testing - Consumer Notice
The Wenham Water Department’s mission is to reliably deliver high quality water to our community. As required by Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) we are closely monitoring a family of chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that have been detected in many public water supplies in Massachusetts and across the nation. MassDEP will require all Massachusetts public water suppliers test for the sum of six PFAS compounds (PFAS6) by October 2021.
The Wenham Water Department’s mission is to reliably deliver high quality water to our community. As required by Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) we are closely monitoring a family of chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that have been detected in many public water supplies in Massachusetts and across the nation. MassDEP will require all Massachusetts public water suppliers test for the sum of six PFAS compounds (PFAS6) by October 2021.
At the beginning of the year, the Water Department took advantage of an early PFAS testing program offered by MassDEP. MassDEP has set a drinking water standard of 20 nanograms per liter (ng/L), or 20 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFAS6. Our initial samples returned results of 16.7 parts per trillion, which is below the 20 ppt standard. In compliance with MassDEP, monthly sampling for PFAS6 began in March and have consistently returned results below the 20 ppt standard.
As your public water supplier, we strive to comply with drinking water standards and will conduct the necessary testing to ensure compliance. We currently test for over 30 regulated contaminants, and take all necessary measures to treat and provide drinking water in compliance with drinking water regulations. If testing shows PFAS6 levels exceed the state standard, please be assured that we will comply with all regulations and communicate our plans with the public.
We understand that you may have questions and concerns. Please visit the provided links to additional information regarding PFAS in drinking water. And you may call the water department office with any questions you may have.
