WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — Wausau’s Water Works Commission will hear proposals from six different consulting groups with experience handling PFAS contamination next week. The latest step as the city wrestles with removing the so-called forever chemicals from its drinking water supply.
Public Works Director Eric Lindman says given PFAS’ status as an emerging contaminant, the Commission felt it would be beneficial to get another set of eyes on the situation, particularly one that’s seen the problem before. “[They’ll] work alongside Donohue & Associates as we move through both the pilot study and any other investigative-type studies that may come up or may be beneficial for the city,” said Lindman.
All six groups to submit proposals to the city are Wisconsin companies, including Stevens Point’s AECOM and Tetra Tech of Schofield. The other four come from Madison and Milwaukee. They will present their proposals to the Commission Wednesday, April 6th at a special meeting beginning at 6:15.
Lindman says the pilot study is already underway to determine which filtration systems will work best to remove the chemicals from Wausau’s water. He expects updates on that study at future Water Works Commission meetings in May and June. He adds that he still expects the chemicals will not be an issue after the new drinking water treatment plant comes online this summer.
The system will be the first in the state designed to remove PFAS. Lindman says that means it’s even more important that they get the formula right to provide a road map for others to follow. “There are no drinking water treatment systems in Wisconsin that are set up specifically for the removal of PFAS. Wausau is on track to be the first. Our goal is to work with [the DNR]; not only on the pilot study but if there’s any other investigative work we could do that would be beneficial to Wausau specifically and others throughout the state as more people start testing.
“We [are at the forefront]. What can we do to help out every municipality that runs into this situation, that has to manage PFAS?” he added.
RELATED: Consultant to be hired to make recommendations on PFAS in Wausau’s water
Lindman once again emphasized that the city’s drinking water is within all current standards and remains safe to drink. Though a drinking water advisory suggests residents reduce their consumption. The city will continue to make bottled water available at the water treatment plant and with community partners. Filters and pitchers designed to remove the chemicals will also be available to residents shortly.
“I want people to understand that the water is safe to drink and use, but we do also understand that there are concerns out there,” he said.
Comments