PFAS Monitoring Underway in the Mat‑Su

As part of an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Emerging Contaminants grant, the Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) began sampling of Community Water Systems (CWS) and Non-Transient Non-Community (NTNC) water systems across the State of Alaska to conduct initial monitoring in accordance with new EPA PFAS rules that came into effect in April of 2024.  The sampling is specifically looking for compounds known as Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS). In late March of this year, DEC notified the Mat-Su Borough and School District that PFAS were detected in the groundwater near Cottonwood Creek Elementary School. The School District is taking appropriate measures based on DEC recommendations and has communicated with the Cottonwood Creek school community.

PFAS are synthetic chemicals that resist heat, water, and stains. These substances are commonly found in everyday items such as cosmetics, electronics, rain gear, non-stick cookware, and stain-resistant fabrics.  Certain types of firefighting foam, including aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF), are among several materials that have historically been associated with PFAS in the environment. AFFF has historically been used for fuel and chemical fire suppression at airports, military locations, industrial sites, and fire training centers. The identification of PFAS at a site does not, by itself, establish the source, timing, or pathway by which it got there.

While the State of Alaska restricted the use of AFFFs containing PFAS effective January 1, 2025, the Borough fire service areas have not used or stored AFFF since 2017. When AFFF was in use by the Borough, it was used in accordance with regulations and manufacturer guidelines at that time. The Borough, along with DEC, are working together to investigate.

The Borough will begin sampling other areas across the Borough where PFAS may be present and will coordinate all testing with DEC. In conjunction with DEC, we anticipate a public meeting(s) in any local area where PFAS is detected in groundwater. DEC and the Alaska Department of Health (DOH) will be available to provide technical information and help answer questions at this meeting.

For media inquiries, contact: Public Affairs Director/Stefan Hinman/This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it./907-861-8520