BISMARCK – Since 2018, the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality has been investigating Per and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) contamination from Aqueous Film Forming Foam at fire training sites and other locations across the state.

Currently, none of the public water systems sampled in North Dakota have levels that would exceed EPA-proposed drinking water limits, and the department reports it is not aware of any private wells testing positive for PFAS in the state. Facilities that have historically used certain firefighting foams may notify neighboring landowners and request access for additional testing.

PFAS, also called “forever chemicals” because they do not fully degrade in nature, are synthetic chemicals used in a wide range of products because of their ability to repel water, grease and oil, according to the department. PFAS is often present in certain foams used to extinguish fires involving flammable liquids, various building materials, carpet treatments, non-stick cookware and other consumer products. According to the National Institutes of Health, multiple types of PFAS compounds exist. Only a few U.S. laboratories can analyze PFAS compounds at this time, and knowledge of the health effects are evolving.

Exposure to high levels of these PFAS compounds may lead to adverse human health effects, including developmental effects on fetuses during pregnancy, immune system problems, changes to cholesterol levels, and cancer. What scientists understand about PFAS changes as new research provides additional information.

Environmental Quality continues to monitor drinking water, surface water and groundwater for these compounds and is working with other state agencies and facility operators to determine the full pollutant impact.

For health-related questions, contact your local healthcare provider or call the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services.