ZeroWater Filters and pitchers distributed by the City of Wausau. MWC photo by Mike Leischner
WAUSAU, WI (WSAU) — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources proposed 70 parts per trillion standards for PFAS in drinking water has passed through the administrative rules process.
Republicans announced on Monday they would not object to the standard, though it remains to be seen how the DNR will implement the regulations. Lawmakers could pull back if they feel the laws are being implemented unfairly.
This comes despite a recommended 20 PPT mark from the state’s Department of Health Services. Several other states including Minnesota and Michigan have also implemented lower standards.
Leaders in Wausau have also noted that they are anticipating a national standard that’s lower than 70 PPT in the coming months, meaning they are preparing to deliver water with as few PFAS as possible when the city’s new drinking water treatment plant comes online later this year. The plant is slated to be the first of its kind in Wisconsin certified to remove PFAS contamination from the water it delivers.
We've also talked to experts at the @EPA about our PFAS remediation plans and they've offered to have their experts take a look at our final plan once we've approved our direction.
— Katie Rosenberg ✌ (@katierosenberg) June 14, 2022
Rosenberg adds that the utility will hold a special meeting later this month to discuss the matter, including financing options for the preferred PFAS removal method at the new plant.
Rosenberg adds the utility has a long way to go but “is moving in the right direction,” on the matter. Earlier this year it was announced that all six of Wausau’s municipal water wells showed elevated levels of PFAS, which have been linked to several health issues including cancer and high cholesterol.
The city immediately turned to distribute bottled water to residents along with filters and pitchers designed to remove the chemicals. They’ll consider distributing more filters during tonight’s Finance Committee and City Council meetings.
Comments