Perfluorochemicals (PFCs) and Water
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Water Analysis and Treatment
PFCs in Minnesota water
The chemical and physical properties of PFCs allow many of them to move very rapidly in the environment. Since they are able to easily pass through soil and fissures in bedrock, PFCs released to the environment can quickly contaminate the groundwater.
In the east metro area, the drinking water sources of eleven communities have been impacted by PFCs in the groundwater, including eight municipal water supplies (see Maps of Sites). In most cases, the concentrations of PFCs are far below levels of health concern.
Where PFCs exceed allowable levels, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) and Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) have worked with the affected cities and homeowners to provide water treatment. MDH also contracted for an independent study of water treatment systems, to provide residents with information about how to reduce or remove PFCs from their water.
Back to PFCs Home: Perfluorochemicals (PFCs) in Minnesota
Water Analysis and Treatment
For information on point-of-use water treatment, carbon filters, and water testing for perfluorochemicals in Dakota and Washington Counties, please see Water Analysis and Treatment.
Go to > topPFCs in Minnesota Water
For information about specific areas MDH has tested for PFCs in water, follow the links below.
- Update: Perfluorochemicals and the City of Oakdale Public Water Supply
- Lake Elmo Private Wells
- PFBA in the Groundwater of the South East Metro Area
