Spokane and Spokane County have submitted a comprehensive plan to the Washington State Department of Ecology to tackle the pervasive PFAS contamination affecting the West Plains area. This contamination, originating from decades of firefighting foam use at the Spokane International Airport (SIA), has led to “forever chemicals” leaching into local groundwater and private wells. The submitted plan outlines immediate and long-term strategies to ensure residents have access to safe drinking water.
Addressing ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Drinking Water
Spokane and Spokane County have submitted a comprehensive plan to the Washington State Department of Ecology to tackle the pervasive PFAS contamination affecting the West Plains area. This contamination, originating from decades of firefighting foam use at the Spokane International Airport (SIA), has led to “forever chemicals” leaching into local groundwater and private wells. The submitted plan outlines immediate and long-term strategies to ensure residents have access to safe drinking water.
Key Highlights of the PFAS Mitigation Plan:
- Residents within the contamination zone will receive PFAS-filtering water pitchers and access to a clean water fill station.
- Eligibility for clean water provisions is extended to all residents on wells within the designated area, irrespective of whether their water has been tested.
- Approximately 900 properties have been identified within the area requiring clean water.
- The plan includes programs for testing private wells for PFAS.
- Both Point of Use Treatment (POUT) filters and more permanent Point of Entry Treatment (POET) systems are part of the solution.
- A substantial investment of $7.5 million is earmarked for the installation of POET systems by June 2027.
- The plan is a joint effort by the City of Spokane, Spokane County, and Spokane International Airport, designated as “Potentially Liable Persons” by the Department of Ecology.
The Source of Contamination and Health Concerns
The presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in the West Plains’ water supply is a direct result of historical practices at SIA, where firefighting foams containing these chemicals were utilized for years. These compounds, dubbed “forever chemicals,” are highly resistant to degradation and have been linked to a spectrum of serious health issues, including various types of cancer, heart disease, and thyroid problems. The contamination has spread to groundwater, impacting residential wells and posing a significant risk to public health.
Regulatory Mandates and Collaborative Action
The submission of this plan is in response to mandates from the Washington State Department of Ecology, which has ordered the city and county to provide uncontaminated drinking water to affected residents. The order specifies the need for “interim actions” to mitigate exposure risks while a more comprehensive, long-term cleanup strategy is developed. The collaborative approach involving the city, county, and airport underscores the shared responsibility in addressing this environmental and public health challenge.
Future Steps and Ongoing Efforts
The plan now awaits approval from the Department of Ecology. Beyond providing immediate access to clean water and filters, the entities are committed to installing permanent filtration systems and continuing the testing of private wells. The ongoing efforts aim to not only address the current contamination but also to prevent future risks associated with PFAS in the region.
FAQ: People Also Ask
Q: What are PFAS and why are they a concern in Spokane?
A: PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are man-made chemicals commonly found in firefighting foams, non-stick cookware, and stain-resistant fabrics. They are a concern in Spokane because historical use of these chemicals at the Spokane International Airport has led to contamination of groundwater in the West Plains area. Known as “forever chemicals,” PFAS are highly persistent in the environment and have been linked to serious health problems, including cancer and other diseases.
Q: What immediate steps are being taken to provide clean water to affected residents?
A: The plan includes providing affected residents with PFAS-filtering water pitchers and access to a clean water fill station. Additionally, Point of Use Treatment (POUT) filters will be provided for drinking water at home.
Q: What is the long-term solution for PFAS contamination in the West Plains?
A: The long-term solution involves the installation of Point of Entry Treatment (POET) filter systems, designed to permanently remove PFAS from water entering homes and businesses. Spokane County is working to install $7.5 million worth of POET systems by June 2027. The plan also includes continued testing of private wells to monitor and manage contamination.
