Residents served by the Nikishka Bay Utility in Nikiski, Alaska, are facing elevated levels of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in their drinking water, according to tests conducted by a senior scientist with Alaska Community Action on Toxics. PFAS, often referred to as "forever chemicals," pose severe
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health risks, including cancer, developmental issues, immune system impairments, and metabolic conditions.
The suspected contamination source in Nikiski's water is firefighting foams, known as AFFFs, used in fire training exercises in the area. These foams are commonly implicated in PFAS contamination.
The Nikishka Bay Utility, serving approximately 80 customers in the Nikiski neighborhood, tested the water in February, revealing high PFAS levels. The initial test analyzed untreated water directly from the well, prompting further testing of treated water. Results from the treated water in October showed some reduction but not enough to meet safety standards.
Residents can get pitchers that filter out PFAS from drinking water. DEC hopes to work with the borough to set up a watering point in Nikiski, where residents could come to fill up jugs with fresh water.
Source:
www.kdll.org
