Montgomery County officials have issued a warning regarding elevated levels of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) found in a pond and stream near Great Seneca Highway. A contact water advisory has been established for the Muddy Branch stream and the pond it feeds into, located at the intersection of the highway and Key West Avenue.
Residents and their pets are advised to refrain from swimming, fishing, or touching the water in these areas. The Maryland Department of the Environment notified county officials about the concerning levels of these synthetic chemicals, commonly referred to as 'forever chemicals,' which are used in various products including nonstick cookware and adhesive bandages.
Research indicates that long-term exposure to PFAS may elevate the risk of certain cancers. However, Laura O’Donnell from WSSC Water, which provides drinking water to most residents in Montgomery County, reassured the public that the contamination poses no threat to drinking water supplies.
County officials reported that the highest concentrations of PFAS were detected near the site of the former Montgomery County Public Safety Training Academy, where firefighting foam containing these chemicals was used for decades until its ban by the state legislature in 2021.
The contamination is primarily localized around the pond and specific sections of Muddy Branch, with significantly lower PFAS levels detected in surrounding areas. Kisha Davis, the county’s health officer, stated that brief contact with the contaminated water does not increase health risks, emphasizing that chronic exposure through drinking contaminated water or consuming contaminated fish poses the greatest danger.
In response to the contamination, the county has begun notifying residents and businesses in the vicinity, posting warning signs, and offering free testing for private wells located within a one-mile radius of the most affected areas. Additionally, officials plan to hold a series of community meetings to discuss the contamination, with the first meeting scheduled for Wednesday at DuFief Elementary School at 7 p.m.
Reported by HarborBeat based on The Baltimore Banner (source).
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