DE well water survey finds PFAS, resident speaks out, looking for change
DELAWARE – Clean water, is an essential part of life which is something the first state is struggling to maintain. “If people tested their drinking water and knew what was in it, they would demand change,” says Greg Layton with Food and Water Watch of Delaware.
Sussex County resident, Shelly Cohen says any news of contaminants in their water isn’t new to her, but it’s an ongoing issue she wants to be addressed. “But dumping waste here and treating Sussex County like it’s the toilet of the state, and maybe even this region, is I think this is an old story,” says Cohen.
A new report by the U.S. Geological Survey revealed just how contaminated Delaware’s well water is. Researchers found a variety of PFAS (per- and polyfluorinated alkyl substances) in water from 16 to 30 wells throughout the state. Some of the major hot spots are near Wilmington, Rehoboth, Fenwick, Georgetown, and Delmar. “This report about PFAS just adds another layer to our knowledge, clearly without safeguards, polluters will pollute, industries will put the dollar above the common good,” says Layton.
However, according to Layton, this problem isn’t new. It just goes to show community members don’t always know what’s in their water and haven’t for a while. “They don’t realize that PFAS and nitrates and other chemicals can build up in their systems even in small amounts and cause serious health effects,” says Layton.
That’s why he says testing your well water is essential. Residents tell 47 ABC, it’s a problem that goes further than unclean drinking water. “I think it’s amazing how you’re poisoning the land that you’re growing things in, but you’re also poisoning the water that we all have to share,” says Cohen.
Rick Duncan, Executive Director Delaware Rural Water says they’re working on a plan to address the problem. “Although a trace amount was detected in the raw water, the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund will provide funding to install additional removal treatment at no cost to the owner.”
However, following through with these actions, Layton says is key. “All of these issues raise attention for them and persuade government agencies and elected officials to take action where appropriate.”
Cohen also says she wants all state leaders to step up to the plate to hear the concerns of other residents and she says it’s future generations that we need to be most concerned about.
