Georgetown Tests Methods to Remove 'Forever Chemicals' from Water Supply
Georgetown, Delaware, is actively addressing the presence of hazardous “forever chemicals” (PFAS and PFOA) in its water supply. These chemicals, known for bioaccumulation and potential carcinogenic effects, are costly to remove. With $2.3 million in state funding, Georgetown is piloting various filtration methods, including activated charcoal and polymer iron resins, to identify the most effective solution. The project involves a multi-million-dollar plan for facility design and construction, anticipated to take two or more years, contingent on continued funding and evolving EPA guidelines, aiming to safeguard public health.
Georgetown, Delaware, is undertaking a significant initiative to purify its water supply following the detection of harmful “forever chemicals,” specifically PFAS and PFOA. These persistent chemicals pose serious health risks due to their bioaccumulative nature, damaging DNA cells and potentially causing cancer. Heather Warren of the Delaware Rural Water Association highlighted the pervasive presence of these chemicals in the environment and the substantial financial burden associated with their removal.To combat this issue, Georgetown has secured $2.3 million in state funding, earmarked for comprehensive testing and analysis. The town is currently evaluating several advanced filtration methods through a pilot program, including granulated activated charcoal and two distinct forms of polymer iron resins—one in bead and another in gel form. Jene Dvornick, Georgetown’s general manager, explained that this pilot phase is crucial for determining the most effective treatment media before proceeding to larger-scale implementation.Looking ahead, the project's subsequent phases involve the design and construction of a full-scale treatment facility. This stage is projected to require significant investment, with $950,000 allocated for design and an estimated $20 million for construction. The entire endeavor is expected to span at least two years, with the timeline heavily dependent on the availability of ongoing funding. Local officials are also diligently tracking evolving Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines to ensure compliance and adopt the best available practices. This proactive approach by Georgetown not only addresses immediate contamination concerns but also aims to establish a sustainable solution for clean water, recognizing that many other rural communities in Delaware face similar environmental challenges.
