PFAS and Lithium Testing in Drinking Water
In late 2022, the BCPUD was randomly selected by the Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) to be monitored for polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs), and lithium, as a representative small water system. BCPUD therefore began conducting quarterly monitoring of our treated water beginning in 2023. These monitoring requirements are part of ongoing efforts by state and federal regulators to better understand the presence of emerging contaminants in public water systems and to ensure the continued safety of drinking water supplies.
What are PFAS?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of human-made chemicals that have been used since the 1940s in a variety of consumer and industrial products. PFAS are sometimes referred to as “forever chemicals” because they break down very slowly in the environment.
Common uses of PFAS have included:
- Non-stick cookware
- Water-resistant clothing
- Food packaging
- Stain-resistant fabrics and carpets
- Firefighting foams
Because PFAS can persist in the environment, they may be found in soil, groundwater, surface water, and, in some areas, drinking water sources.
Why is PFAS testing being conducted?
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California State Water Resources Control Board have established monitoring requirements to determine whether PFAS are present in public drinking water supplies. Testing helps water systems identify potential sources of contamination and determine whether treatment or other actions may be necessary.
What is Lithium?
Lithium is a naturally occurring element that can be found in rocks, soils, groundwater, and surface water. It is also used in various industrial applications, including rechargeable batteries, electronics, ceramics, and pharmaceuticals.
Why is lithium testing being conducted?
The EPA has included lithium in its nationwide monitoring program to gather information about its occurrence in drinking water supplies. At this time, there is no federal drinking water standard for lithium. Monitoring data collected from water systems across the country will help regulators evaluate whether future health-based standards or guidance may be needed.
What does this mean for BCPUD customers?
The BCPUD tested for PFA’s and Lithium within the following quarters:
March, 2023
June, 2023
September, 2023
December, 2023
March, 2026
The initial EPA testing protocol required only four quarters of PFAS monitoring during 2023. In April 2024, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) published the final Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) National Primary Drinking Water Regulation, requiring all community and non-transient, non-community water systems to complete initial monitoring by April 26, 2027.
In May 2026, the California State Water Resources Control Board’s Marin District confirmed that the PFAS sampling completed by the Bolinas Community Public Utility District (BCPUD) in 2023 satisfies the initial monitoring requirement. As a result, BCPUD is not required to conduct additional initial PFAS monitoring before the April 26, 2027 deadline.
Following the completion of the current monitoring period, BCPUD will continue to collect and submit water samples for laboratory analysis as required by state and federal drinking water regulations. If future monitoring identifies results that require public notification or additional action, BCPUD will promptly notify the community and provide information about any necessary response measures.
Where can I learn more?
Additional information about PFAS and drinking water monitoring can be found through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the California State Water Resources Control Board.
If you have questions regarding BCPUD’s water quality monitoring program, please contact the District office.
Bolinas Community Public Utility District
270 Elm Road, Bolinas, CA 94924
(415) 868-1224
bcpud@bcpud.org