Washington Water recently tested all active wells in our Artondale system for PFAS. These substances are not currently regulated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; however, Washington has a “State Action Level” for certain PFAS substances. If the SAL is ever exceeded, we will notify customers so you are aware.
Through our rigorous monitoring and testing process, we found that two groundwater wells at one station in the Bayview area of our Artondale system had elevated levels of PFOS, one of the substances in the PFAS family. Because protecting our customers’ health and safety is our highest priority, we proactively removed the affected wells from service, and no water is being provided by these sources. Subsequent testing for this area confirms no detections of PFOS, and we will not resume using these wells until the PFOS has been addressed.
While we did not cause the PFAS to be in the groundwater, we are committed to appropriately treating and removing it from the water we serve.
Who is affected?
Through our hydraulic modeling of water flow, water served by these wells was typically distributed to customers in the eastern-most part of the Artondale system, while the remaining customers in the system would not have received water from those wells.
If you aren’t sure whether you are affected, you can enter your address into the map below or refer to the letter mailed to Artondale customers on Sept. 22, 2023.
What should you do?
There is nothing required of you at this time. With the affected wells offline, any presence of PFOS or other PFAS substances is below the SAL. The Washington Department of Health recommends:
- While exposure to PFAS substances comes from a variety of sources, you can learn more about PFAS in drinking water online at:
- Do NOT boil your water to reduce PFAS; boiling water does not reduce these levels.
- If you have specific health concerns, you may wish to consult your healthcare provider.
We will keep you updated of any new developments and remain committed to protecting our customers’ health and safety. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact us toll-free at (877) 408-4060 or via email at [email protected].
Not sure if you’re affected?
You can enter your address into the search bar on the map below to see if your property is inside or outside of the affected area.