Local
PFAS found in Colorado River samples near Webberville and Bastrop, report says
A Texas environmental group reports finding PFAS in every Texas waterway sample it tested, including two collected along the Colorado River near Austin. The report raises concerns about persistent pollution, but the published findings provided no contaminant levels or sample count.
Two samples collected from the Colorado River near Webberville and Bastrop contained PFAS, according to a report released Oct. 21 by the Environment Texas Research and Policy Center. The group said every Texas waterway sample included in its testing showed contamination.
PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a large class of synthetic chemicals often called “forever chemicals” because they break down very slowly. They are used in products such as nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing and some food packaging, as well as in firefighting foam.
The report says PFAS can enter waterways through industrial discharges and wastewater sent to treatment plants. Contaminated sewage sludge, or biosolids, that is used as fertilizer can also carry the chemicals into the environment.
Environment Texas says PFAS exposure has been associated with health risks including cancer, reduced fertility and developmental delays in children. The group’s executive director, Luke Metzger, said residents should not have to worry about contaminated drinking water or fish. The reported river findings, however, do not establish that local drinking water or fish are contaminated.
The findings add to concerns about chemicals that can persist in the environment and accumulate in people’s bodies. Environment Texas is urging companies to phase out PFAS in everyday products. The information provided about the Texas sampling did not specify the number of samples tested, measured PFAS concentrations or whether the results exceed any regulatory limits.