PFAS are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. PFAS is a class of chemicals found in various industrial and consumer goods. For instance, you may find them in food packaging, textiles, cosmetics, and frequently in aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) used to extinguish fires. PFAS chemicals are known for repelling grease, water, and stains, making them widely used in various applications. These chemicals are stable and persistent, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals” because they do not readily biodegrade, or break down easily in the environment.
Numerous researchers suggested PFAS are abundant in aquatic systems and toxic to a range of aquatic organisms, with additional concerns of bioaccumulation of PFAS. PFAS accumulate in sediments and aquatic organisms, which pose health risks to wildlife and humans through the food chain. Research suggests linkages of PFAS to disruption of endocrine function, reproduction, and development in aquatic organisms. Research suggests similar linkages of PFAS to humans, like increased cancer risk, immune system suppression, endocrine and reproductive disruption, and child developmental concerns.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) estimated that at least 45% of the United States’ tap water has one or more PFAS chemicals (Smalling et al. 2023). At least one PFAS was identified in 60% of public wells and 20% of domestic wells supplying drinking water in the eastern United States (McMahon et al. 2022).
Have PFAS been found in Santa Rosa County drinking water and surface waters?
Measured PFAS in Florida and Santa Rosa County Drinking Waters
Figure 1. Map with measured total PFAS in drinking water samples across a gradient of low concentrations (green dots) to medium concentrations (yellow dots) to higher concentrations (red dots). Shaded map colors are the predicted total PFAS using estimated values of PFAS concentrations from low (green) to high (red). Data, figure, and result interpolation from Sinkway et al. 2024.
A team of researchers completed a comprehensive statewide assessment of PFAS in Florida drinking water (Sinkway et al. 2024). The team collected 448 drinking water samples across all 67 Florida counties. The drinking water samples were analyzed for 31 PFAS, where 19 PFAS were found in at least one drinking water sample. The top five most frequently detected PFAS across Florida were 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FTS) (in 84% of the samples analyzed), Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) (65%), linear perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) (65%), branched PFOS (64%), and perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS).
A total of 107 taps had PFOA or PFOS concentrations above 4 ng/L (ppt), where the maximum total PFAS concentration in a tap was 219 ng/L. A maximum contaminant level for PFOA and PFOS of 4 ng/L was implemented by the United States Environmental Protection Agency National Primary Drinking Water Regulation as of May 14, 2025 (USEPA, 2025). Overall, 8% of the drinking water samples analyzed exceeded 4 ng/L for PFOA and 16% for PFOS. The average total PFAS in city water was 15.6 ng/L, and in well water was 4.5 ng/L across Florida.
Santa Rosa County was not ranked in the 12 Florida counties with the highest maximum and average total PFAS concentrations (ng/L) or the lowest maximum and average total PFAS concentrations (ng/L) in drinking water (Table 1). Santa Rosa ranked 34th for the highest maximum total PFAS concentration and 35th for the highest average total PFAS concentration among the 67 Florida counties. Among the 25 drinking water samples collected, the maximum total PFAS concentration measured was 15 ng/L with an average total PFAS of 4.8 ng/L among the drinking water samples.
Table 1. The 12 Florida counties with highest and lowest total PFAS drinking water concentrations (ng/L). Data, figure, and result interpolation from Sinkway et al. 2024.
Measured PFAS in Florida and Santa Rosa County Surface Waters
A team of researchers completed a comprehensive statewide assessment of PFAS in Florida surface waters (Camacho et al. 2024). A network of citizen scientists collected 2,323 surface water samples across the 67 Florida counties. These surface water samples were analyzed for 50 PFAS, with 33 PFAS being detected in at least one surface water sample across Florida. The top five most frequently detected PFAS were perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) (94% of the samples), perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS) (65%), perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) (61%), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) (54%), and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) (53%).
There were 915 surface water samples (39%) with PFOA concentrations above 4 ng/L and 920 samples (40%) with PFOS above 4 ng/L. All counties had at least one sample with PFOA, 96% had PFNA, 93% had PFBS, 91% had PFOS, and 82% of counties had PFHxA. The average PFAS detected among counties ranged from 2 ng/L of PFNA to 10 ng/L of PFOS. The maximum PFAS detected among counties ranged from 81 ng/L of PFOA to 1135 ng/L of PFOS.
Figure 2. Surface water sampled sites with detected PFAS, where the dots’ color represents the total PFAS concentration measured. Map B shows predicted PFAS levels based on measured total PFAS concentrations in surface water samples. Note that these values do not represent predicted PFAS concentrations on land. Data, figure, and result interpolation from Camacho et al. 2024.
A total of 36 surface water samples were collected in Santa Rosa County (Figure 2). Santa Rosa County ranked 31stamong Florida counties with 7 surface water samples (7 samples out of 36 total or 19%) with PFOA above 4 ng/L. Santa Rosa County ranked 26th for the number of samples with 8 samples (22%) above 4 ng/L for PFOS. The average total PFAS concentration detected in a surface water sample was 6 ng/L, while the maximum total PFAS concentration detected in a sample was 29 ng/L.
Dr. Bowden, with the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Chemistry Department, led the PFAS research shared here. Dr. Bowden has extensive information on the Bowden Lab website (https://www.bowdenlaboratory.com/dr-bowden.html), including an interactive map of all the PFAS surface water samples collected in Florida. Select Okaloosa County under the filter section to see the surface water samples and learn more about the PFAS information for each sample collected in Okaloosa County (https://www.bowdenlaboratory.com/florida-surface-water.html).
What does this mean for Santa Rosa County?
PFAS have been detected in drinking water and surface waters in Santa Rosa County. Although not the highest concentrations across the state, there were drinking and surface water samples exceeding USEPA’s 4 ng/L contaminant level standard. Understanding what PFAS are and joining in educational conversations about PFAS helps our community. Efforts that support continued sampling and extended monitoring also increase our understanding of PFAS concentrations in Santa Rosa County’s drinking and surface waters. If you want to learn more about PFAS or join community scientists’ efforts to expand PFAS water monitoring, please contact Dana Stephens, Florida Sea Grant Extension Agent with the UF/IFAS Okaloosa County Extension Office.
References
Camacho, C.G., et al. 2024. Statewide surveillance and mapping of PFAS in Florida surface waters. American Chemical Society, 4: 434-4355. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsestwater
McMahon, P.B., Tokranov, A.K., and Bexfield, L.M. 2022. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in groundwater used as a source of drinking water in the Eastern United States. Environmental Science and Technology 56(4): 2279-2288. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.1c04795
Skinkway, T.D., et al. 2024. Crowdsourcing citizens for statewide mapping of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Florida drinking water. Science of the Total Environment, 926: 1-9. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171932
PFAS are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. PFAS is a class of chemicals found in various industrial and consumer goods. For instance, you may find them in food packaging, textiles, cosmetics, and frequently in aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) used to extinguish fires. PFAS chemicals are known for repelling grease, water, and stains, making them widely used in various applications. These chemicals are stable and persistent, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals” because they do not readily biodegrade, or break down easily in the environment.
Numerous researchers suggested PFAS are abundant in aquatic systems and toxic to a range of aquatic organisms, with additional concerns of bioaccumulation of PFAS. PFAS accumulate in sediments and aquatic organisms, which pose health risks to wildlife and humans through the food chain. Research suggests linkages of PFAS to disruption of endocrine function, reproduction, and development in aquatic organisms. Research suggests similar linkages of PFAS to humans, like increased cancer risk, immune system suppression, endocrine and reproductive disruption, and child developmental concerns.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) estimated that at least 45% of the United States’ tap water has one or more PFAS chemicals (Smalling et al. 2023). At least one PFAS was identified in 60% of public wells and 20% of domestic wells supplying drinking water in the eastern United States (McMahon et al. 2022).
Have PFAS been found in Walton County drinking water and surface waters?
Measured PFAS in Florida and Walton County Drinking Waters
Figure 1. Map with measured total PFAS in drinking water samples across a gradient of low concentrations (green dots) to medium concentrations (yellow dots) to higher concentrations (red dots). Shaded map colors are the predicted total PFAS using estimated values of PFAS concentrations from low (green) to high (red). Data, figure, and result interpolation from Sinkway et al. 2024.
A team of researchers completed a comprehensive statewide assessment of PFAS in Florida drinking water (Sinkway et al. 2024). The team collected 448 drinking water samples across all 67 Florida counties. The drinking water samples were analyzed for 31 PFAS, where 19 PFAS were found in at least one drinking water sample. The top five most frequently detected PFAS across Florida were 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FTS) (in 84% of the samples analyzed), Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) (65%), linear perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) (65%), branched PFOS (64%), and perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS).
A total of 107 taps had PFOA or PFOS concentrations above 4 ng/L (ppt), where the maximum total PFAS concentration in a tap was 219 ng/L. A maximum contaminant level for PFOA and PFOS of 4 ng/L was implemented by the United States Environmental Protection Agency National Primary Drinking Water Regulation as of May 14, 2025 (USEPA, 2025). Overall, 8% of the drinking water samples analyzed exceeded 4 ng/L for PFOA and 16% for PFOS. The average total PFAS in city water was 15.6 ng/L, and in well water was 4.5 ng/L across Florida.
Walton County was not ranked in the 12 Florida counties with the highest maximum and average total PFAS concentrations (ng/L) in drinking water (Table 1). Walton County was not included in the rankings of Florida counties with the lowest maximum and average total PFAS concentrations (ng/L) in drinking water as the total number of samples (n=3) was below the required 5 total number sample requirement (Table 1). Among the three drinking water samples collected, the maximum PFAS concentration measured was 0 ng/L with an average of 0 ng/L. Walton County had no drinking water samples exceeding the 4 ng/L standard for PFOA.
Table 1. The 12 Florida counties with highest and lowest total PFAS drinking water concentrations (ng/L). Data, figure, and result interpolation from Sinkway et al. 2024.
Measured PFAS in Florida and Walton County Surface Waters
A team of researchers completed a comprehensive statewide assessment of PFAS in Florida surface waters (Camacho et al. 2024). A network of citizen scientists collected 2,323 surface water samples across the 67 Florida counties. These surface water samples were analyzed for 50 PFAS, with 33 PFAS being detected in at least one surface water sample across Florida. The top five most frequently detected PFAS were perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) (94% of the samples), perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS) (65%), perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) (61%), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) (54%), and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) (53%).
There were 915 surface water samples (39%) with PFOA concentrations above 4 ng/L and 920 samples (40%) with PFOS above 4 ng/L. All counties had at least one sample with PFOA, 96% had PFNA, 93% had PFBS, 91% had PFOS, and 82% of counties had PFHxA. The average PFAS detected among counties ranged from 2 ng/L of PFNA to 10 ng/L of PFOS. The maximum PFAS detected among counties ranged from 81 ng/L of PFOA to 1135 ng/L of PFOS.
Figure 2. Surface water sampled sites with detected PFAS, where the dots’ color represents the total PFAS concentration measured. Map B shows predicted PFAS levels based on measured total PFAS concentrations in surface water samples. Note that these values do not represent predicted PFAS concentrations on land. Data, figure, and result interpolation from Camacho et al. 2024.
A total of 18 surface water samples were collected in Walton County (Figure 2). Walton County ranked 51st among Florida counties with one surface water sample (one sample out of 18 total or 5%) with PFOA above 4 ng/L. Walton County ranked 42nd for the number of samples with two samples (11%) above 4 ng/L for PFOS. The average total PFAS concentration detected in a surface water sample was 6 ng/L, while the maximum total PFAS concentration detected in a sample was 29 ng/L.
Dr. Bowden, with the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Chemistry Department, led the PFAS research shared here. Dr. Bowden has extensive information on the Bowden Lab website (https://www.bowdenlaboratory.com/dr-bowden.html), including an interactive map of all the PFAS surface water samples collected in Florida. Select Okaloosa County under the filter section to see the surface water samples and learn more about the PFAS information for each sample collected in Okaloosa County (https://www.bowdenlaboratory.com/florida-surface-water.html).
What does this mean for Walton County?
PFAS were not detected in drinking waters in Walton County. However, the sample size, or the number of samples, was small with three total samples collected and analyzed. PFAS were detected in surface waters in Walton County. Although not the highest concentrations or most frequent identified in Florida, there were surface water samples above USEPA’s 4 ng/L contaminant level standard for PFOA and PFOS.
Understanding what PFAS are and joining in educational conversations about PFAS helps the Walton County community. Efforts that support continued sampling and extended monitoring also increase our understanding of PFAS concentrations in Walton County’s drinking and surface waters. If you want to learn more about PFAS or join community scientists’ efforts to expand PFAS water monitoring, please contact Dana Stephens, Florida Sea Grant Extension Agent with the UF/IFAS Okaloosa County Extension Office.
References
Camacho, C.G., et al. 2024. Statewide surveillance and mapping of PFAS in Florida surface waters. American Chemical Society, 4: 434-4355. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsestwater
McMahon, P.B., Tokranov, A.K., and Bexfield, L.M. 2022. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in groundwater used as a source of drinking water in the Eastern United States. Environmental Science and Technology 56(4): 2279-2288. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.1c04795
Skinkway, T.D., et al. 2024. Crowdsourcing citizens for statewide mapping of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Florida drinking water. Science of the Total Environment, 926: 1-9. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171932
PFAS are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. PFAS is a class of chemicals found in various industrial and consumer goods. For instance, you may find them in food packaging, textiles, cosmetics, and frequently in aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) used to extinguish fires. PFAS chemicals are known for repelling grease, water, and stains, making them widely used in various applications. These chemicals are stable and persistent, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals” because they do not readily biodegrade, or break down easily in the environment.
Numerous researchers suggested PFAS are abundant in aquatic systems and toxic to a range of aquatic organisms, with additional concerns of bioaccumulation of PFAS. PFAS accumulate in sediments and aquatic organisms, which pose health risks to wildlife and humans through the food chain. Research suggests linkages of PFAS to disruption of endocrine function, reproduction, and development in aquatic organisms. Research suggests similar linkages of PFAS to humans, like increased cancer risk, immune system suppression, endocrine and reproductive disruption, and child developmental concerns.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) estimated that at least 45% of the United States’ tap water has one or more PFAS chemicals (Smalling et al. 2023). At least one PFAS was identified in 60% of public wells and 20% of domestic wells supplying drinking water in the eastern United States (McMahon et al. 2022).
Have PFAS been found in Escambia County drinking water and surface waters?
Measured PFAS in Florida and Escambia County Drinking Waters
Figure 1. Map with measured total PFAS in drinking water samples across a gradient of low concentrations (green dots) to medium concentrations (yellow dots) to higher concentrations (red dots). Shaded map colors are the predicted total PFAS using estimated values of PFAS concentrations from low (green) to high (red). Data, figure, and result interpolation from Sinkway et al. 2024.
A team of researchers completed a comprehensive statewide assessment of PFAS in Florida drinking water (Sinkway et al. 2024). The team collected 448 drinking water samples across all 67 Florida counties. The drinking water samples were analyzed for 31 PFAS, where 19 PFAS were found in at least one drinking water sample. The top five most frequently detected PFAS across Florida were 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FTS) (in 84% of the samples analyzed), Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) (65%), linear perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) (65%), branched PFOS (64%), and perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS).
A total of 107 taps had PFOA or PFOS concentrations above 4 ng/L (ppt), where the maximum total PFAS concentration in a tap was 219 ng/L. A maximum contaminant level for PFOA and PFOS of 4 ng/L was implemented by the United States Environmental Protection Agency National Primary Drinking Water Regulation as of May 14, 2025 (USEPA, 2025). Overall, 8% of the drinking water samples analyzed exceeded 4 ng/L for PFOA and 16% for PFOS. The average total PFAS in city water was 15.6 ng/L, and in well water was 4.5 ng/L across Florida.
Escambia County ranked 2nd among the 67 Florida counties for the highest maximum and average total PFAS concentrations (ng/L) or the lowest maximum and average total PFAS concentrations (ng/L) in drinking water (Table 1). Among the 12 drinking water samples collected, the maximum total PFAS concentration measured was 219 ng/L, with an average total PFAS of 49 ng/L among the drinking water samples.
Table 1. The 12 Florida counties with highest and lowest total PFAS drinking water concentrations (ng/L). Data, figure, and result interpolation from Sinkway et al. 2024.
Measured PFAS in Florida and Escambia County Surface Waters
A team of researchers completed a comprehensive statewide assessment of PFAS in Florida surface waters (Camacho et al. 2024). A network of citizen scientists collected 2,323 surface water samples across the 67 Florida counties. These surface water samples were analyzed for 50 PFAS, with 33 PFAS detected in at least one surface water sample across Florida. The top five most frequently detected PFAS were perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) (94% of the samples), perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS) (65%), perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) (61%), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) (54%), and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) (53%).
There were 915 surface water samples (39%) with PFOA concentrations above 4 ng/L and 920 samples (40%) with PFOS above 4 ng/L (Figure 2). All counties had at least one sample with PFOA, 96% had PFNA, 93% had PFBS, 91% had PFOS, and 82% of counties had PFHxA. The average PFAS detected among counties ranged from 2 ng/L of PFNA to 10 ng/L of PFOS. The maximum PFAS detected among counties ranged from 81 ng/L of PFOA to 1135 ng/L of PFOS.
Figure 2. Surface water sampled sites with detected PFAS, where the dots’ color represents the total PFAS concentration measured. Map B shows predicted PFAS levels based on measured total PFAS concentrations in surface water samples. Note that these values do not represent predicted PFAS concentrations on land. Data, figure, and result interpolation from Camacho et al. 2024.
A total of 52 surface water samples were collected in Escambia County. Escambia County ranked 22nd among Florida counties with 14 surface water samples (14 samples out of 52 total or 27%) with PFOA above 4 ng/L. Escambia County ranked 27th for the number of samples, with 7 samples (13%) above 4 ng/L for PFOS. The average total PFAS concentration detected in a surface water sample was 12 ng/L, while the maximum total PFAS concentration detected in a sample was 118 ng/L.
Dr. Bowden, with the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Chemistry Department, led the PFAS research shared here. Dr. Bowden has extensive information on the Bowden Lab website (https://www.bowdenlaboratory.com/dr-bowden.html), including an interactive map of all the PFAS surface water samples collected in Florida. Select Okaloosa County under the filter section to see the surface water samples and learn more about the PFAS information for each sample collected in Okaloosa County (https://www.bowdenlaboratory.com/florida-surface-water.html).
What does this mean for Escambia County?
PFAS were detected in drinking water and surface waters in Escambia County. There were drinking and surface water samples exceeding USEPA’s 4 ng/L contaminant level standard, notably in the 12 collected drinking water samples. Understanding what PFAS are and joining in educational conversations about PFAS helps our community. Efforts that support continued sampling and extended monitoring also increase our understanding of PFAS concentrations in Escambia County’s drinking and surface waters. If you want to learn more about PFAS or join community scientists’ efforts to expand PFAS water monitoring, please contact Dana Stephens, Florida Sea Grant Extension Agent with the UF/IFAS Okaloosa County Extension Office.
References
Camacho, C.G., et al. 2024. Statewide surveillance and mapping of PFAS in Florida surface waters. American Chemical Society, 4: 434-4355. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsestwater
McMahon, P.B., Tokranov, A.K., and Bexfield, L.M. 2022. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in groundwater used as a source of drinking water in the Eastern United States. Environmental Science and Technology 56(4): 2279-2288. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.1c04795
Skinkway, T.D., et al. 2024. Crowdsourcing citizens for statewide mapping of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Florida drinking water. Science of the Total Environment, 926: 1-9. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171932
PFAS—have you heard of them? Do you know what they are, or is it more of a term thrown around without much context?
PFAS are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. PFAS is a class of chemicals found in various industrial and consumer goods. For instance, you may find them in food packaging, textiles, cosmetics, and frequently in aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) used to extinguish fires. PFAS chemicals are known for repelling grease, water, and stains, making them widely used in various applications. These chemicals are stable and persistent, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals” because they do not readily biodegrade, or break down easily in the environment.
Numerous researchers suggested PFAS are abundant in aquatic systems and toxic to a range of aquatic organisms, with additional concerns of bioaccumulation of PFAS. PFAS accumulate in sediments and aquatic organisms, which pose health risks to wildlife and humans through the food chain. Research suggests linkages of PFAS to disruption of endocrine function, reproduction, and development in aquatic organisms. Research suggests similar linkages of PFAS to humans, like increased cancer risk, immune system suppression, endocrine and reproductive disruption, and child developmental concerns.
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) estimated at least 45% of the United States’ tap water has one or more PFAS chemicals (Smalling et al. 2023). At least one PFAS was identified in 60% of public wells and 20% of domestic wells supplying drinking water in the eastern United States (McMahon et al. 2022).
Have PFAS been found in Okaloosa County drinking water and surface waters?
Measured PFAS in Florida and Okaloosa County Drinking Waters
Figure 1. Map with measured total PFAS samples across a gradient of low concentrations (green dots) to medium concentrations (yellow dots) to higher concentrations (red dots). Shaded map colors are the predicted total PFAS using estimated values of PFAS concentrations from low (green) to high (red). Data, figure, and result interpolation from Sinkway et al. 2024.
A team of researchers completed a comprehensive statewide assessment of PFAS in Florida drinking water (Sinkway et al. 2024). The team collected 448 drinking water samples across all 67 Florida counties. The drinking water samples were analyzed for 31 PFAS, where 19 PFAS were found in at least one drinking water sample. The top five most frequently detected PFAS were 6:2 fluorotelomer sulfonate (6:2 FTS) (in 84% of the samples analyzed), Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) (65%), linear perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) (65%), branched PFOS (64%), and perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS).
A total of 107 taps had PFOA or PFOS concentrations above 4 ng/L (ppt), where the maximum total PFAS concentration in a tap was 219 ng/L (Click on link for higher resolution–Figure 1). The maximum contaminant level for PFOA and PFOS is 4 ng/L, legally enforced by the United States Environmental Protection Agency National Primary Drinking Water Regulation as of May 14, 2025 (USEPA, 2025). Overall, 8% of the drinking water samples analyzed exceeded 4 ng/L for PFOA and 16% for PFOS. The average total PFAS in city water was 15.6 ng/L, and in well water was 4.5 ng/L.
Table 1. Top average 12 Florida counties with highest and lowest total PFAS concentrations (ng/L). Data, figure, and result interpolation from Sinkway et al. 2024.
Okaloosa County had the 11th highest total PFAS (ng/L) concentration among the 67 Florida counties (Click on link for higher resolution–Table 1). Among the eight drinking water samples collected, the maximum PFAS concentration measured was 140 ng/L, and the lowest was 18 mg/L. Okaloosa County had one drinking water sample that exceeded the 4 ng/L standard for PFOA. There were no drinking water samples that exceeded 4 ng/L for PFOS.
Measured PFAS in Florida and Okaloosa County Surface Waters
A team of researchers completed a comprehensive statewide assessment of PFAS in Florida surface waters (Camacho et al. 2024). A network of citizen scientists collected 2,323 surface water samples across the 67 Florida counties. These surface water samples were analyzed for 50 PFAS, with 33 PFAS being detected in at least one surface water sample. The top five most frequently detected PFAS were perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) (94% of the samples), perfluorobutane sulfonic acid (PFBS) (65%), perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA) (61%), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA) (54%), and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) (53%).
Figure 2. Map A contains all surface water sampled sites with detected PFAS, where the dots’ color represents the total PFAS concentration measured. Map B shows predicted PFAS levels based on measured total PFAS concentrations in surface water samples. Note that these values do not represent predicted PFAS concentrations on land. Data, figure, and result interpolation from Camacho et al. 2024.
There were 915 (39%) surface water samples with PFOA concentrations above 4 ng/L and 920 (40%) samples with PFOS above 4 ng/L (Click on link for higher resolution–Figure 2). All counties had at least one sample with PFOA, 96% had PFNA, 93% had PFBS, 91% had PFOS, and 82% of counties had PFHxA. The average PFAS detected among counties ranged from 2 ng/L of PFNA to 10 ng/L of PFOS. The maximum PFAS detected among counties ranged from 81 ng/L of PFOA to 1135 ng/L of PFOS. Figure 2
Okaloosa County ranked 27th among Florida counties due to 10 (20%) surface water samples with PFOA above 4 ng/L. Okaloosa County ranked 9th for the number of samples (38 total samples or 78% of the samples) above 4 ng/L for PFOS. A total of 49 surface water samples were collected in Okaloosa County. The average total PFAS concentration detected in a surface water sample was 31 ng/L, while the maximum total PFAS concentration detected in a sample was 185 ng/L.
Dr. Bowden, with the University of Florida’s College of Veterinary Medicine and Chemistry Department, led the PFAS research shared here. Dr. Bowden has extensive information on the Bowden Lab website (https://www.bowdenlaboratory.com/dr-bowden.html), including an interactive map of all the PFAS surface water samples collected in Florida. Select Okaloosa County under the filter section to see the surface water samples and learn more about the PFAS information for each sample collected in Okaloosa County (https://www.bowdenlaboratory.com/florida-surface-water.html).Figure 2Table 1
What does this mean for Okaloosa County?
PFAS have been detected in drinking water and surface waters in Okaloosa County. Although not the highest concentrations or most frequent identified in Florida, there were drinking and surface water samples above USEPA’s 4 ng/L contaminant level standard. Understanding what PFAS are and joining in educational conversations about PFAS helps our community. Efforts that support continued sampling and extended monitoring also increase our understanding of PFAS concentrations in Okaloosa County’s drinking and surface waters. If you want to learn more about PFAS or join community scientists’ efforts to expand PFAS water monitoring, please contact Dana Stephens at the UF/IFAS Okaloosa County Extension Office.
References
Camacho, C.G., et al. 2024. Statewide surveillance and mapping of PFAS in Florida surface waters. American Chemical Society, 4: 434-4355. https://doi.org/10.1021/acsestwater
McMahon, P.B., Tokranov, A.K., and Bexfield, L.M. 2022. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in groundwater used as a source of drinking water in the Eastern United States. Environmental Science and Technology 56(4): 2279-2288. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.1c04795
Skinkway, T.D., et al. 2024. Crowdsourcing citizens for statewide mapping of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Florida drinking water. Science of the Total Environment, 926: 1-9. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171932
Flooding due to heavy rains can cause septic systems to fail. Image: B. White NASA. Public Domain
About 30% of households in Florida rely on septic systems to treat and dispose of household wastewater. This includes all water from bathrooms and kitchens, and laundry machines.
Conventional septic systems are made up of a septic tank (a watertight container buried in the ground) and a drain field, or leach field. The septic tank’s job is to separate out solids (which settle on the bottom as sludge), from oils and grease, which float to the top and form a scum layer. Bacteria break down the solids (the organic matter) in the tank. The liquid wastewater or effluent, which is in the middle layer of the tank, flows out through pipes into the drain field and underlying soil, where most of the treatment takes placeDuring floods or heavy rains, the soil around the septic tank and in the drainfield become saturated, or water-logged, and the effluent from the septic tank can’t properly drain though the soil. Special care needs to be taken with your septic system during and after a flood or heavy rains.
Diagram of a conventional septic system. Courtesy of the Leon County Public Works Department.
What should you do after flooding occurs?
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) offers these guidelines:
If your water supply comes from a private well, have it tested for bacteria (total coliform bacteria and E. coli) to make sure it’s safe for consumption, which includes drinking, brushing teeth and cooking. Contact your local County Health Department for testing information. Use an alternate water source or boil your water (bring it to a rolling boil for at least 1 minute) before using it.
Relieve pressure on the septic system by using it less or not at all until floodwaters recede and the soil has drained. For your septic system to work properly, water needs to drain freely in the drainfield. Under flooded conditions, water can’t drain properly and can back up in your system. Remember that in most homes all water sent down the pipes goes into the septic system. Clean up floodwater in the house without dumping it into the sinks or toilet.
Avoid digging around the septic tank and drainfield while the soil is water logged. Don’t drive heavy vehicles or equipment over the drainfield. By using heavy equipment or working under water-logged conditions, you can compact the soil in your drainfield, and water won’t be able to drain properly.
Don’t open or pump out the septic tank if the soil is still saturated. Silt and mud can get into the tank if it is opened and can end up in the drainfield, reducing its drainage capability. Pumping under these conditions can cause a tank to pop out of the ground.
If you suspect your system has been damage, have the tank inspected and serviced by a professional. How can you tell if your system is damaged? Signs include: settling, wastewater backs up into household drains, the soil in the drain field remains soggy and never fully drains, a foul odor persists around the tank and drain field.
Keep rainwater drainage systems away from the septic drainfield. As a preventive measure, make sure that water from roof gutters doesn’t drain into your septic drainfield – this adds an additional source of water that the drainfield has to manage.
Private well system in Florida. Image: UF/IFAS, C. Wofford
About 2.5 million Floridians rely on private wells for home consumption, which includes water for drinking, cooking, and personal hygiene. Private wells are not regulated by the EPA Clean Water Act, and well users are responsible for ensuring their water is safe to drink.
What should you have your well water tested for?
The Florida Department of Health (FDOH) recommends that well users test their well water once a year for bacteria at a minimum. Another important contaminant to test for is nitrate.
Bacteria: Labs generally test for total coliform (TC) bacteria and fecal coliforms (like E. coli).
Coliform bacteria are a large group of bacteria and most are harmless. But a positive test result indicates that if they are in your water, other pathogens that cause diseases may also be present. They are used as indicator organisms.
Fecal coliform bacteria are a subgroup of coliform bacteria found in human and other warm-blooded animal feces. E. coli are one species and some strains can cause diarrhea, food poisoning and other illnesses.
If your water sample tests positive for only total coliform bacteria or both TC and fecal coliform (E. coli), FDOH recommends your well be disinfected through shock chlorination. You can either hire a well contractor to do this or you can do it yourself. Information for how to shock chlorinate your well can be found at EDIS Private Wells 101: Bacterial Contamination and Shock Chlorination
Take a water sample at the kitchen faucet if this is where you get most of the water that your household consumes. Image: F. Alvarado
Nitrate: The U.S. EPA set the Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) allowed for nitrate in drinking water at 10 milligrams per liter of water (mg/L). Values above this are a particular concern for infants less than 6 months old because high nitrate levels can cause a type of “blue baby syndrome” (methemoglobinemia), where nitrate interferes with the capacity of hemoglobin in the blood to carry oxygen. It is especially important to test for nitrate if you have a young infant in the home that will be drinking well water or when well water will be used to make formula to feed the infant.
If test results come back above 10 mg/L, never boil nitrate contaminated water as a form of treatment. This will not remove nitrates. Use water from a tested source (bottled water or water from a public supply source) until the problem is addressed. Nitrate in well water can come from multiple sources, including fertilizers, animal waste and/or human sewage, such as from a septic tank.
You should also have your well water tested at any time when:
The color, taste or odor of your well water changes or if you suspect that someone became sick after drinking your well water.
A new well is drilled or if you have had maintenance done on your existing well
A flood occurred and your well was affected
Remember: Bacteria and nitrate are by no means the only parameters that well water is tested for. Call your local health department to discuss what they recommend you should get the water tested for. FDOH also maintains an excellent website with many resources for private well users which includes information on potential contaminants and how to maintain your well to ensure the quality of your well water.
Where can you have your well water tested?
UF/IFAS Extension will be hosting a private well and water quality workshop on April 11 in Blountstown, with a Zoom option. We will cover well and septic system function and maintenance, water testing and how to prepare for hurricane season. We will also offer facilitated water testing. For more information and to register go to our Eventbrite link or you can also register by visiting the Calhoun County Extension Office, (850-674-8323). Last week’s post about the workshop provides more information as well.
In general, many county health departments accept samples for water testing. You can also submit samples to a certified commercial lab near you. Contact your county health department for information about what to have your water tested for. If they don’t offer testing, they often provide the name of certified laboratories near you. Or you can search for FDEP certified laboratories here.
If you have any questions, you can also reach out to me at albertin@ufl.edu or (850)875-7111.
