In response to the announcement from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on national drinking water standards for some PFAS compounds, Suffolk County Water Authority Chairman Charlie Lefkowitz issued the following statement:
“The Suffolk County Water Authority’s mission has never wavered, and yesterday’s announcement by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency does not change our goals. Our commitment remains clear: we will continue to treat for all contaminants, including PFAS, to non-detectable levels—regardless of federal limits.
Regarding PFOA and PFOS, the most common PFAS compounds found in our system, SCWA is already well on its way to meeting the 4 parts per trillion (PPT) standard, years ahead of the federal compliance deadline. In just the past year, we’ve brought 17 new Granular Activated Carbon treatment systems online to address PFAS. Our team continues to deploy these systems efficiently and effectively, and we could not be more proud of their dedication.
We also remain prepared for compounds the EPA is still evaluating, such as GenX and PFHxS. Though these are rare in our system, our current treatment methods have proven effective at removing them when detected.
Our customers should be assured: we will continue to roll out treatment until every supply well in our system delivers high quality water with non-detectable levels of PFAS. That’s our commitment.”
SCWA PFAS Response – Key Facts:
- SCWA has been testing for PFAS since 2013, well before regulations were in place.
- SCWA began installing PFAS treatment systems before the New York State standard went into effect in 2020.
- In the past year alone, SCWA has installed 17 new Granular Activated Carbon systems for PFAS removal.
- Only about one-third of SCWA’s supply wells require PFAS treatment, but SCWA will install systems on all wells with any detectable PFAS.
- SCWA treatment methods are effective at removing not just PFOA and PFOS, but also compounds being reconsidered by EPA, including PFHxS, PFNA, HFPO-DA and PFBS.
- SCWA has secured more than $16 million in New York State grants to support PFAS treatment and help keep rates low for customers.
About SCWA:
The Suffolk County Water Authority is an independent public-benefit corporation operating under the authority of the Public Authorities Law of the State of New York. Serving approximately 1.2 million Suffolk County residents, the Authority operates without taxing power on a not-for-profit basis.