Madison Reporter

On April 10th, 2024, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized regulations concerning PFAS in drinking water. The rules establish new enforcement standards for various PFAS compounds, aiming to ensure the safety of public water supplies.

Madison Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway expressed her satisfaction with the new regulations, emphasizing the importance of protecting the health of families and communities. She praised the proactive measures taken by the Madison Water Utility in monitoring PFAS levels and securing resources to address any pollution concerns.

The finalized regulations set out maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) for six different PFAS compounds, with specific limits for individual substances and a combined standard for a mixture of PFAS. These standards have been designed to safeguard public health and ensure the quality of drinking water across the country.

Madison, as a proactive city, has been diligently testing for PFAS in its drinking water sources over the past years. The city is well-prepared to meet and exceed the new strict standards set by the EPA. Mayor Rhodes-Conway affirmed the city's commitment to providing safe and clean water to its residents.

The regulations require utilities to monitor for specific PFAS compounds by 2027 and report the results annually. If any source exceeds the new limits, corrective actions must be taken to reduce PFAS levels by 2029. Madison is already ahead in this aspect, having been testing and reporting on PFAS since 2019.

One of the key areas of focus for Madison is Well 15, which currently has high levels of several PFAS compounds. The decision to shut down the well in 2019 was a proactive step taken in response to community concerns. Construction of a new PFAS treatment system at Well 15 is set to begin this summer, with operations expected to start by the following summer, well in advance of the EPA rules taking effect.

The project at Well 15 will utilize a hybrid system combining granular activated carbon (GAC) and ion exchange (IX) resin to effectively remove PFAS from the water. The city has secured financing through President Joe Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, with a significant portion provided as a grant, minimizing the financial burden on the community.

Mayor Rhodes-Conway commended President Biden for enacting stronger PFAS standards and making funds available to address PFAS pollution. The EPA's approval of the new regulations provides clarity on safe PFAS levels in drinking water and sets clear treatment goals for Well 15.

Madison's commitment to implementing treatment at Well 15 underscores the city's dedication to ensuring the provision of safe and high-quality water to its residents. Community members are encouraged to stay informed about the project by visiting the Well 15 Project Website and signing up for updates.