The Eau Claire City-County Health Department is partnering with researchers from UW-Eau Claire to offer a limited number of free private well water tests for PFAS, commonly referred to as “forever chemicals.”
PFAS, or perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are found in everyday items like fast food wrappers, nonstick cookware, cosmetics, water-resistant clothing, and household stain repellants. PFAS have also been detected in the environment, including surface water and groundwater, because of this widespread use. Research indicates that high levels of PFAS can have harmful health effects.
In late 2023, the Eau Claire City-County Health Department was notified of a rural drinking water well that was tested and found to contain PFAS above recommended health levels. The Health Department notified nearby well owners of this detection and encouraged PFAS testing for other wells in the area. Since then, 38 private wells have been tested for PFAS and 14 have contained PFAS above the recommended health level.
