Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of manufactured chemicals that have been used in industry and consumer products since the 1940s because of their useful properties. Some common examples are non-stick cookware, water-repellent clothing, food packaging, electronics, cosmetics, and firefighting foams. PFAS chemicals are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they break down very slowly and can build up in people, animals, and the environment over time. Significant sources of contamination often include airports, fire stations, and landfills, but even private septic systems may be a contributing factor.
Check out this video from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to learn more:
Learn more below:
Current scientific research suggests that exposure to certain PFAS may lead to adverse health outcomes. However, research is still ongoing to determine how different levels of exposure to different PFAS can lead to a variety of health effects. Research is also underway to better understand the health effects associated with low levels of exposure to PFAS over long periods of time, especially in children.
Learn more here: Our Current Understanding of the Human Health and Environmental Risks of PFAS | US EPA
In 2016, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a Health Advisory for PFAS and PFOA when found at a combined concentration of 70 parts per trillion (ppt) or greater.
Past PFOA and PFOS Health Effects Science Documents | US EPA
In 2020, the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) set a new maximum contaminant level (MCL) for PFAS in Public Water Systems (PWS) of 20 ppt for the combined total of six PFAS compounds, known as PFAS6.
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) | Mass.gov
In 2024, the EPA finalized a new federal rule for PFAS that will apply to PWS across the entire country. The new rule sets limits for two PFAS compounds (PFOA and PFOS) at 4 ppt and, for other compounds like PFNA, PFHxS, and GenX Chemicals, the limit is 10 ppt.
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) | US EPA
Currently, our water quality meets the Massachusetts’ PFAS standards of 20 ppt for PFAS6. However, the Town will need to take additional steps to lower the PFAS levels in our water supply in order meet the new standard. All water nationwide must meet the EPA standard by 2029. We are already planning how to best prepare for these changes and ensure we meet the established timelines for compliance.
Foxborough elected to conduct voluntary sampling for PFAS in 2019. At that time, PFAS was found to be present in our sources. Upon discovery, the Town has been required to conduct additional regular sampling for monitoring of PFAS in our system. However, all sources currently in use meet Massachusetts state guidelines. Additional information about Foxborough’s water quality can be found in our annual Drink Water Quality / Consumer Confidence Reports. Per our 2023 Annual Drinking Water Quality Report the Highest Quarterly Average for PFAS6 was 11.95 ppt.
Reports And Data - Town of Foxborough (foxboroughma.gov)
Foxborough currently has three (3) water treatment plants which were strategically located to collect and treat the water from our various groundwater well sources. These plants were primarily designed for the removal of iron and manganese which are responsible for many discolored water issues. The combination of these plants and a robust unilateral flushing program have effectively eliminated the majority of the Town’s brown / “dirty” water complaints.
In order to remove PFAS, additional treatment structures must be added to each of these three plants. The first plant scheduled for treatment expansion is located at Pumping Station Road off of Chestnut Street. This site was selected first because it had our highest levels of PFAS and is home to our largest producing wells. A new building will be constructed on site which will contain large granulated activated carbon (GAC) filters. Construction is currently scheduled to begin on January 2025 and is estimated to be complete by May 2026.
The next treatment plant scheduled for expansion will likely be on Lamson Road off of Oak Street. No design or construction contracts have been secured at this time, but planning efforts are currently underway.
All costs associated with the administration and maintenance of the Foxborough water and sewer systems are funded through dedicated enterprise accounts which are separate from the Town's general fund (property tax, local receipts, state aid, etc.) These enterprise accounts are funded through the establishment of rates and fees which are reviewed and voted on by the Board of Water & Sewer Commissioners.
The costs associated with expansion of our treatment plants for PFAS removal are significant. Each expansion is estimated to cost approximately $15 million, which means a combined cost of $45 to 50 million is needed. In addition, the removal and replacement of the new filter media could represent an increase in annual operating cost in the range of up to $1 million depending on frequency.
To help offset these costs, the town was able to secure an interest free loan through the State Revolving Fund (SRF) for construction of our first treatment expansion. Additionally, the town has been tentatively awarded $500,000 from the EPA.
Foxborough is also currently engaged in a multi-district litigation that has been filed against companies who have been identified as having a significant contribution to PFAS contamination in drinking water supplies. This lawsuit is ongoing and final settlement details are not known at this time.
Boiling water will not reduce or remove PFAS. A boil water order is typically only issued when a bacterial problem is detected.
There are certain home filtration units that have been certified to remove at least some PFAS, though the extent is debatable because of varying factors. Those interested should look for point-of-use systems that are NSF certified for PFAS reduction.
Learn more here:
PFAS in Drinking Water | NSFLocal and state regulations do not currently mandate the testing of PFAS in private drinking water wells. However, since PFAS was discovered in the Town’s groundwater supply, there is strong possibility it may also be present in private wells. MassDEP recommends that all private drinking water wells be tested for PFAS contamination, especially if your well is located within one to two miles of a known source of PFAS or of other water supplies where PFAS has been detected.
If you would like additional information relating to private wells, owners should contact the MassDEP Drinking Water Program at Program.director-dwp@mass.gov (subject: PFAS) or Foxborough's Director of Public Health, Matthew Brennan: mbrennan@foxboroughma.gov, 508-543-1207.
Learn more here: PFAS in Private Well Drinking Water Supplies FAQ | Mass.gov
