Health officials are finding traces of PFAS chemicals in public water systems statewide, but the City of Kalamazoo water supply tested below the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) health advisory levels, said Kalamazoo College Facilities Management.
According to Lindemann, officials tested 15 pumping stations in Kalamazoo this June; 12 stations had no detectable levels of PFAS contamination, but three did test positive for traces of the chemicals, albeit below the EPA guideline of 70 parts per trillion.
They’re found in everyday items, like food packaging, household cleaners, clothing fabrics, and pizza boxes.
The chemical group never breaks down and can accumulate over time in areas like drinking water—and living organisms.
Limited findings relate this toxic chemical group to low infant birth rate, thyroid disruption, and cancer.
In May, health officials confirmed that water samples tested above the EPA limit in the nearby towns of Richland and Battle Creek, according to the DEQ webpage.
The Kalamazoo Gazette reported in August that Parchment city officials will connect their city’s water to the Kalamazoo water system for at least one year.
As for Kalamazoo college students, Facilities Management stresses that while there is no need for concern, it is always good to be cautious.
For those who are still concerned, Lindemann suggests they go to the City of Kalamazoo’s website and read the water testing results for themselves.
More information about the PFAS chemical group can be found on the EPA’s website, and updates on the PFAS testing sites in Michigan can be found at michigan.gov/pfasresponse.