Identifying PFAS Contamination in Private Wells for an Environmental Agency

The client, a state environmental protection agency, contacted Antea Group to complete well sampling and analyze per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) levels for 21 private residences surrounding a military site. The locations were identified based on historic sampling completed by the client.  

Sampling results indicated the presence of PFAS compounds at all sampling locations and detections above Health Risk Levels (HRL) and/or Health Based Values (HBV) at 17 locations. Based on the results, the client issued well advisory letters to the 17 homes.

Antea Group was engaged to develop a point of entry treatment (POET) program for the affected properties. The program involved developing bid specifications for granular activated carbon (GAC) systems that could effectively remove the detected PFAS compounds from the well water supply at the identified homes. Antea Group secured a plumbing subcontractor, provided oversight, and conducted follow-up sampling to evaluate the effectiveness of the POET systems.  

Prior to installation of POET systems, Antea Group and the plumbing subcontractor performed site walks at each residence to evaluate the available space, locations, and other specific installation needs of each home. In cases where space limitations existed, smaller carbon vessels were secured. Antea Group served as the single point of contact with the homeowners with regards to schedules, samples, and results.

Antea Group’s support for this project resulted in identification and confirmation of residential wells in need of POET systems to protect the residents from PFAS impacted drinking water. Proactive communication with the residences and the ability to complete a scoping site visit allowed for quick installation and minimal disruption to the homeowner. In total, 22 POET units were installed. Follow-up sampling indicated that the GAC vessels effectively removed PFAS compounds to below laboratory reporting limits and provided safe drinking water.  

Antea Group continues to provide routine sampling to monitor carbon change out schedules and to evaluate system effectiveness.