High levels of PFAS found in Chickahominy River watershed near RIC
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Apparent high levels of potentially dangerous chemicals in the Chickahominy River watershed and White Oak Swamp Creek near Richmond International Airport have prompted more extensive testing from state agencies, and the Richmond and Henrico Health Districts will host a Nov. 16 webinar to inform residents about the process.
High levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, were reported in the area recently by the Newport News Waterworks. In the weeks since, the Virginia Department of Health and Virginia Department of Environmental Quality have been developing sampling plans, in conjunction with Henrico County, to learn more about potential human and environmental impacts and to discuss mitigation strategies related to public health.
Henrico County officials have started sampling the surface water in the White Oak Swamp to validate and verify the results of the testing conducted by NNWW.
The RHHD webinar will take place Nov. 16 from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. To register for it, click here.
PFAS are widely used, long-lasting chemicals with components that do not break down naturally over time. PFAS are used in the manufacturing of a number of consumer products including non-stick cookware, carpets and fabric, paper and cardboard packaging. Studies have examined a possible relationship between long-term PFAS exposure and various health risks, including increased cholesterol, decreased vaccine response in children, changes in liver enzymes, increased risk of high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia in pregnant women, small decreases in birth weight, and increased risk of kidney and testicular cancer.
Results of the recent testing and investigation may not yet be available at the time of the webinar, but the involved agencies have said they will continue to keep residents informed as more information becomes available.
Officials are advising residents of the area who use well water that they can continue to use it normally for now but said they should stay tuned for any action items that might arise following testing and investigation.
