PFAS

On May 25, 2023, Mukwonago Waterworks collected water samples of the Water Utility’s drinking water and tested them for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). They found some PFAS compounds in Well #7 that were present at levels above Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) health advisory levels. PFAS levels in the other wells were not at levels of health concern. PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in many products since the 1950s. 

At this time, the risk to health is low.  Mukwonago Waterworks is not in violation of any drinking water standards or regulations and has proactively taken actions to protect the health of its customers.  On June 26, 2023 Well #7 was shut off, Mukwonago Waterworks is only using water from wells with levels below DHS health Advisory/Hazard Index guidance levels. Well #7 will only be turned on in the event of an emergency. People and businesses can continue to use the water from Mukwonago Waterworks.

What is being done to correct the issue? In addition to shutting off Well 7, Mukwonago Waterworks is assessing the impact of well #7 being taken out of service. We will be looking at the feasibility of installing temporary treatment until a permanent solution can be implemented.

GENERAL PFAS QUESTIONS --- PLEASE SEE THE DEPARTMENT OF NATURAL RESOURCES WEBSITE: https://dnr.wi.gov/topic/Contaminants/PFAS.html

Important Notice: PFAS Detected in Well #7

Welcome to the official webpage addressing the recent detection of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Mukwonago’s Well #7. Our top priority is the health and safety of our customers, and we want to ensure transparency and provide you with the necessary information about this issue. The most important item to note on this page is that Well # 7 is off at this time, and the remaining Wells for the Water Utility do not pose the same PFAS health risk that Well #7 does.

Key Information: Date of Detection and Notification: We discovered the presence of PFAS during routine testing on 5-25-23. We were notified by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) on 6-19-23 that the water from the well had exceeded the advisory hazard health index guidelines set by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS).

Concentration Levels of PFAS Detected: The detected levels of PFAS in the drinking water well were measured at 11 nanograms per liter (ng/l) for PFOA and 6.8 ng./l for PFOS. Other compounds of PFAS were also present but are not considered as harmful as PFOA and PFOS at low concentrations even though they do factor into the health hazard index. The latest testing results can be viewed from the link(s) at the bottom of this page. While these concentrations are below the regulatory limits, we understand the concern and are committed to addressing the issue.

Health Risks: PFAS are a group of human-made chemicals that have been widely used in various industries. Prolonged exposure to high levels of PFAS may have potential health effects, including: an increase cholesterol levels, decrease how well the body responds to vaccines, and reduce fertility in women.  Some other studies have indicated that high levels of certain PFAS may increase the risk of thyroid disease, increase the risk of serious conditions like high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia in pregnant women, and lower infant birth weights. It is important to note that the detected levels in Well #7 are currently below the regulatory limits.

Applicable Regulations or Guidelines: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set guidelines for PFAS concentrations in drinking water. We are working closely with the Wisconsin DNR, who enforces the EPA’s guidelines, to ensure that our water supply meets or exceeds these guidelines.

Immediate Actions: As soon as confirmation sampling was taken, we isolated Well #7 from the rest of the distribution system by shutting it off. In addition, we have been working with our engineers to assess the effects that having Well #7 off pose to the Water Utility. We are exploring options and costs for temporary treatment. Once we have a recommendation it will be presented to the Village Board. The long-term goal will be to get our firm capacity to meet current and future max day water capacity demands with a water quality that meets and exceeds state and federal standards.

Detailed Explanation PFAS, or Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, are a class of synthetic chemicals that have been used in various commercial and industrial applications for their water and grease-resistant properties. They have been found in products like non-stick cookware, waterproof fabrics, food packaging, and firefighting foam. PFAS can enter the environment through manufacturing processes, releases from industries, and improper disposal.

For more detailed information about PFAS, their sources, and potential health effects, we recommend visiting reputable sources such as the EPA's website or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Water Utility Response We take the detection of PFAS in our drinking water supply very seriously. In response to the detection, we have taken the following actions:

Sampling protocol: Continue current compliance sampling as required, and additional sampling as necessary.

Collaborating with experts: We are consulting with engineers, environmental scientists, health professionals, and regulatory agencies as necessary to develop an effective plan to address the issue and mitigate any potential risks.

Temporary Treatment Solutions: While we work on long-term solutions, we are exploring temporary treatment measures to bring Well #7 back on-line and ensure it meets or exceeds regulatory standards. This helps ensure that we can meet our necessary firm capacity needs.

Public Health Outreach Initiatives: We have provided public notice to our customers. We are actively engaged in communicating with local health departments and community organizations as necessary to provide accurate information and address any concerns or questions from residents. Our main source of outreach will be this webpage and social media.

Contact Information For any further questions or concerns regarding PFAS detection in our drinking water, please contact:

Mukwonago Utilities Director-Wayne Castle: 262-363-6416 or wcastle@villageofmukwonago.gov  

Waukesha County Human and Health Services Department: 262 896-8430 or hhs@waukeshacounty.gov

Walworth County Human and Health Services: 262-741-3200 or walcohhs@co.walworth.wi.us

Wisconsin Department of Health Services: 608-266-1865

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources: DNRPFASInquiries@Wisconsin.gov

Additional Resources: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA): https://www.epa.gov/pfas

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/PFAS_FactSheet.html

Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR): https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/PFAS

Conclusion Our number one goal is providing safe drinking water to our customers. Here at the water utility, we are committed to addressing the presence of PFAS in our community's water supply. We assure you that we are taking appropriate actions to ensure the ongoing safety of the drinking water and will continue to provide updates and information as we progress. We appreciate your understanding, and your health and well-being remain our top priority. It is most important to note that the detected PFAS levels in Well #7 do not exceed Maximum contaminant limits (MCL) for PFAS. In addition, Well #7 has been shut off and therefore our water is safe for consumption without any concern of PFAS.