Lakewood Water addresses PFAS

Since 2014, when Flint, Michigan, changed water sources, then found high concentrations of lead in its municipal water, cities have understandably taken a more attentive view of their own water supplies.

Then a few years later, the presence of PFAS was discovered, nearly across the United States.  Almost half of all American water was found to contain these polyfluoroalkyl substances and perfluorinated substances, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.  PFAS often originates in flame retardants and fast-food box liners, among others.  In low exposures, PFAS are not considered dangerous, but research continues.  

Joint Base Lewis-McChord discontinued PFAS flame retardants 20-30 years ago.  But JBLM shut off three wells six years ago.  Two of the wells around McChord Field were found to have alarming levels of PFAS, around four times the allowable standard. 

Lakewood Water District moved into action.  According to LWD Engineering Manager Marshall Meyer, “since 2016, Lakewood Water District has been testing for PFAS and taking actions to mitigate its impact on our customers. This includes the construction of two water filtration systems to remove PFAS compounds from drinking water, and turning off all water sources that have PFAS levels above the State Action Levels.”

LWD is very straightforward about PFAS and gives more background at
https://www.lakewoodwater.org/lwd/page/pfas-topics

Meyers says, “we continue to invest in drilling new wells in uncontaminated aquifers, and are beginning the design process for two more water filtration systems.”