Understanding PFAS
You’ve probably heard about PFAS in the news, but what are they and where do they come from?
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of man-made chemicals used in making things like firefighting foam, stain repellants, and non-stick cookware. PFAS can’t break down easily in the environment and some PFAS can build-up in our bodies, which can lead to health risks. (EGLE Classroom)
PFAS can get into the environment and into our groundwater in many ways. Industries and manufacturing that use PFAS have waste that can get into rivers and streams. Firefighting foams for aviation fires have PFAS that can leach into groundwater. Landfills have PFAS that can get into the air and groundwater. Residential homes can have PFAS in septic fields from carpet cleaners and other cleaning products being disposed of improperly.
If you are concerned about having PFAS in your water in your drinking water consider using an approved water filter.
More information on PFAS education and what to do as a homeowner and citizen can be found on the MPART Website.
As far as we know, there are no point source polluters of PFAS in Lyndon. However, the Fish Contaminant Monitoring Program’s samples have revealed some risks. More information on contaminants in local fish populations can be found below.
PFAS and other Pollutants in Fish and Wildlife
PFAS and mercury have been found in fish in Lyndon Township's water bodies. Many of these contaminants were released into the environment before knowing they were harmful.
This 2023 Eat Safe Fish Guide includes Joslin Lake, Bruin Lake, and South Lake. Though there are no formal PFAS warnings in Lyndon Township on fish consumption, there are chemicals of concern like mercury found in our fish. Below are tables for the lakes mentioned above from the 2023 Eat Safe Guide for Fish.
Learn more about PFAS in fish and wildlife from MPART.
