A: PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of man-made chemicals that have been used in consumer products and industrial applications since the 1940s. They are sometimes referred to as “forever chemicals” because they break down very slowly in the environment.

A: Advances in laboratory testing now allow PFAS compounds to be detected at extremely low levels. At the same time, state and federal regulators have developed new drinking water standards and monitoring requirements for certain PFAS compounds.

A: Valley of the Moon Water District continues to monitor drinking water quality in accordance with state and federal requirements. If PFAS concentrations exceed applicable state or federal thresholds, the utility is required to notify customers and take appropriate response actions. Customers with specific health concerns should consult their healthcare provider.

A: Valley of the Moon Water District is proactively monitoring for PFAS compounds in accordance with state and federal regulations and guidance. If elevated levels are detected, the District evaluates appropriate response measures, which may include enhanced monitoring, treatment, or removing a source from service.

A: California has established Notification Levels and Response Levels for certain PFAS compounds. A Notification Level (or “NL”) is a level at which water systems must notify governing agencies and, in some cases, customers. A Response Level (or “RL”) is a higher level at which the State recommends that water systems take actions to reduce public exposure. These levels are separate from federal drinking water standards established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

A: Customers should continue to follow guidance provided by their water utility and public health agencies. If monitoring identifies PFAS concentrations above applicable regulatory thresholds, the utility will provide public notification and information regarding any recommended actions.

A: Customers should continue to follow guidance provided by their water utility and public health agencies. In many cases, water systems may detect PFAS at levels below applicable state or federal regulatory thresholds while continuing to provide water that meets drinking water standards. If PFAS concentrations exceed applicable thresholds requiring public notification or response actions, the utility will provide additional information regarding recommended actions and available options. ·         Note: Customers considering installation of home water treatment devices should be aware that improperly installed or poorly maintained systems can create additional water quality, plumbing, and backflow concerns. Any treatment device should be installed and maintained in accordance with manufacturer recommendations and applicable plumbing requirements.

A: PFAS have historically been used in many common products and industrial applications, including firefighting foams, stain-resistant fabrics, food packaging, and certain manufacturing processes. Because these compounds persist in the environment, they are now found in many locations across the country. At this time, identifying a specific source in any particular area may require additional investigation and study.

A: No. PFAS have become a nationwide and worldwide issue affecting many water systems, groundwater basins, rivers, and lakes. Federal and state agencies across the country are currently evaluating monitoring, treatment, and regulatory responses.

A: Additional information about PFAS is available from: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) California State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water You can also review Valley of the Moon Water District’s annual Consumer Confidence Report (Water Quality Report) above for additional drinking water information.