What are PFAS?
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large group of human-made chemicals that have been used in many everyday products since the 1940s. Because they resist heat, water and oil, PFAS have been used in items such as nonstick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, food packaging and some firefighting foams.
Over time, PFAS have become widespread in the environment and can be found in air, soil, groundwater, surface water and drinking water sources around the world. Scientists and regulators continue to study PFAS and their potential impacts on human health and the environment
PFAS Regulations
In April 2024, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) finalized the nation's first drinking water standards for six PFAS compounds. These regulations establish limits for PFAS in public drinking water systems and require ongoing monitoring and treatment when necessary.
Also in April 2024, the California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment adopted Public Health Goals for PFOA and PFOS, two of the most studied PFAS compounds. Public Health Goals help guide the development of California's drinking water standards.
For more information, visit the EPA's PFAS drinking water regulations webpage and California's Division of Drinking Water PFAS information page and fact sheet.
SVWD Monitoring for PFAS
SVWD regularly tests each quarter for PFAS and other contaminants to ensure water pumped from aquifers through the water treatment plants and into businesses and homes is safe to drink. If an individual PFAS compound is detected above its respective notification level, California requires the water agency to notify the boards and councils governing the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the water in Scotts Valley safe to drink?
Yes.
How does PFAS get into groundwater?
PFAS can percolate into groundwater through urban storm water runoff, industrial or domestic wastewater discharges, oil and gas production, mining or farming. There are trace amounts of PFAS everywhere.
How often does the SVWD test for PFAS?
SVWD regularly tests source water each quarter and treated water each quarter for PFAS and other contaminants as prescribed by its regulatory agency.
Where can I find more information about SVWD water quality?
Each year, SVWD releases an annual Water Quality Report that shares information about source water quality.
Within the report are water test results. The PFAS detected are listed under “Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule 5 Monitoring Results” in the report. In addition, the report shows levels of minerals and other contaminants that can be picked up by water as it travels over the surface of land and through the ground.
