Cancer-causing "forever chemicals" have been found in New Mexico's water sources. This information has come from studies conducted by the US Geological Survey (USGS) and state environmental officials. According to findings released by the federal agency last Wednesday (April 10), perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances were found in major rivers of the state of New Mexico. However, the highest quantity of these chemicals was found in the lower reaches of rivers in urban areas.
Researchers from the US Geological Survey (USGS) began investigating New Mexico's water after discovering contamination at military installations. They found that as the Rio Grande River flows through the city of Albuquerque (New Mexico's largest city), the amount of PFAS is 10 times higher than in its headwaters.
Samples taken from wells and surface water sources
Researchers also took dozens of samples from wells and surface water sources as part of a survey conducted across the state between August 2020 and October 2021. However, officials say PFAS was not found in samples from most wells. Andy Jochems, from the Department of Environment's water protection team, said the latest findings related to Forever Chemicals and contamination will help regulators make decisions about protecting drinking water resources in the future.
Ongoing monitoring and reporting required
Officials said Wednesday that they anticipate the new rules will not require anything other than ongoing monitoring and reporting. That's because the company serving the Albuquerque area has found the amount of PFAS in the drinking water system is nowhere near the EPA's limit. According to Kimberly Besner, lead author of the study, changes in concentration may be due to sewage discharge and stormwater runoff.
Standards to reduce 'Forever Chemicals' from drinking water
The development comes at a time when the US Environmental Protection Agency on Wednesday issued new standards to protect people from toxic 'Forever Chemicals' found in many household and everyday items. Has declared its first drinking water standard. In its first major step toward curbing cancer-causing chemicals, the agency has offered states $1 billion for public water system testing.
