Forever Chemicals

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), commonly known as "forever chemicals," are a group of man-made chemicals used in various industrial and consumer products for their water and stain-resistant properties. They are persistent in the environment and the human body, meaning they don't break down and can accumulate over time. Health Risks Associated with PFAS: Immune System Suppression Reduced Vaccine Effectiveness Increased Risk of Certain Cancers Elevated Cholesterol Levels Reproductive and Developmental Problems PFAS in Firefighting Foam: Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) used for firefighting contains PFAS. The Department of Defense (DOD) has historically used AFFF, leading to contamination at military sites. Efforts are underway to transition to PFAS-free firefighting foams.

 Learn more here!

Brunswick Area PFAS Cleanup Open House: The Brunswick Area Citizens for a Safe Environment is hosting an Open House tomorrow, October 1st, from 4 to 6 PM at the Brunswick Recreation Center. Stop by to learn more about the contamination and ongoing cleanup efforts at the former Brunswick Naval Air Station. click here to learn more

 

Latest Update: Brunswick PFAS Spill

Date: September 9, 2024

Summary:

A significant spill occurred at the Brunswick Executive Airport on August 19, 2023. A malfunction in the fire suppression system released approximately 51,450 gallons of firefighting foam containing PFAS, marking the largest accidental spill of such foam in Maine's history and the sixth-largest in the U.S. in the past 30 years.

Impact on Harpswell:

While the spill happened in Brunswick, there are concerns about how this incident may affect Harpswell waters, particularly Harpswell Cove, due to the natural flow of water from Brunswick into Harpswell.

Key Points:

  • Cleanup Efforts:
    • The Maine Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is supervising the cleanup.
    • Approximately 6,000 gallons of the foam mixture have been collected so far.
  • Testing and Monitoring:
    • The DEP has conducted three sets of surface water samples above Harpswell Cove.
      • PFAS concentrations are decreasing near the spill site.
      • PFAS concentrations have increased at the Picnic Pond outlet and salt marshes above Harpswell Cove.
    • Sample results from Harpswell Cove are expected soon.
  • Resident Outreach:
    • DEP representatives are visiting about 45 residential properties in Brunswick to discuss testing drinking water.
    • The public drinking water supply for Brunswick Landing has been confirmed safe.

What This Means for Harpswell Residents:

  • Monitoring: Harpswell officials are actively monitoring the situation and collaborating with the DEP.
  • Testing: Residents using private wells near affected areas may consider testing their water for PFAS.
  • Information Updates: The Town will provide updates as more information becomes available.

Learn More:

 

 

While Harpswell does not face the same level of drinking water and soil contamination concerns as many other parts of the state, there are still steps you can take if you're worried about PFAS:

  • Concerned About Your Drinking Water?
    If you're worried about PFAS in your drinking water, you can perform self-testing. Information for self-testers was last updated on May 23, 2022, and can be found on the Maine DEP website, or by clicking here.

  • Concerned About Soil Contamination?
    The Maine DEP provides guidelines to help you understand safe levels of PFAS contamination in soil and what steps to take if you suspect contamination on your property.

  • What Is Maine Doing?
    The Maine DEP website offers comprehensive information on the state’s efforts to address PFAS contamination in water and soil, including guidance for residents.

  • What Are HCC and the Town Doing?
    The Town of Harpswell stays updated on PFAS developments through its appointed member on the Restoration Advisory Board. This board, formed with the Navy and neighboring towns, oversees the environmental cleanup at the former Naval Air Station. As testing capacity increases, the Town will encourage testing at multiple sites in Harpswell to better assess potential PFAS/PFOS contamination.



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Brunswick Area Citizens For A Safe Environment - Open House - Oct. 1, 2024