'Illegal in three states': Report reveals 'forever chemicals' in Colorado mountain town's water

According to a recently released investigative report published by Denver's CBS4, the level of some 'forever chemicals' present in Frisco, Colorado's drinking water would be considered illegally high in three states. While Frisco's water didn't contain PFAS levels higher than the less-strict national EPA recommendation, some places in Colorado did.

Data from a state health department test last year detected heightened levels of perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the water supply of this mountain town. PFAS levels were determined to be 58.5 parts per trillion. While the EPA recommends no more than 70 parts per trillion, some states have stricter criteria. Frisco's 58.5 parts would be considered too high in New York, Massachusetts, and Vermont.

According to a representative of the Town of Frisco, they are continuing to participate in voluntary testing to gain a better understanding of the situation and to determine if any next steps need to be taken. Tests are currently being funded by the town pending the start of an EPA program in 2022 and the launch of a Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment grant program. Tests being conducted in April and May will help develop a more comprehensive picture of the matter.

While Frisco did not have levels above the EPA health advisory, those levels were found in multiple places where untreated water is present around Colorado.

According to the report, "Four entities that tested source water had sample results that exceeded the EPA health advisory. Three of the four entities already tested for the chemicals in previous years and have notified the public of those results-- Stratmoor Hills Water and Sanitation District and Security Water and Sanitation District located in El Paso County and Sugarloaf fire district located in Boulder County. The entities are either not using that source water or treating the water to remove the chemicals before using it as drinking water. The additional entity is Fourmile Fire District."

In regard to the newly recognized Fourmile Fire District, the report states: "Fourmile Fire District, located in Teller County, had not previously tested for the chemicals and found high levels in a well at one of their stations, but the state was informed the firefighters do not drink this well water. The fire district, local public health agency, and state are examining the geographical area to see if any residents living nearby may be impacted. Residents that live near the Four Mile station will be notified of the results and what steps they can take if they are concerned."

According to the EPA, PFAS can result in several adverse health effects, including impacts on the immune system and cancer-growth. Exposure to PFAS tends to come through consumption of food that has been contaminated. Drinking water is also a key source of exposure.

While PFAs can be introduced into food and water in a number of ways, the CDPHE states that these chemicals can be found in firefighting foam, as well as various consumer products.

PFAS are considered to be 'forever chemicals' because they are not broken down by the environment.

Learn more about this investigative report and the response to the findings from CBS4 here.