Monitoring for “Forever Chemicals” our Drinking Water

SALT LAKE CITY — The Utah Division of Drinking Water (DDW) is hard at work conducting a statewide check-up to ensure that the drinking water is safe from exceeding PFAS levels. PFAS are a group of man-made compounds often called “forever chemicals” because they do not break down in nature.

This statewide initial monitoring began after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) updated its rules that all public water systems must finish their initial round of monitoring by April 2027. While federal rules have seen recent updates regarding which specific PFAS are regulated, Utah remains committed to testing for 26 different types of these compounds to provide a full picture of water health.

Supporting Local Water Systems

Testing for these substances can be technically difficult and expensive for local communities. To ensure that small towns and local water systems don't have to worry about the bill, Utah is using grant money to cover the costs.

“Part of a grant that we received from the EPA allows the Division of Drinking Water to help pay for initial monitoring for PFAS for public water systems in the state of Utah,” explained DDW expert, John Steffan during a recent site visit.

For smaller systems that might need extra help, the state even sends out technicians to do the work. Steffan says, "We have two different grants... we can pay for all of the sampling for initial monitoring for PFAS, and that can include on-site assistance as well.”

PFAS levels in Utah

Scientists strategically collect these samples at the "point of entry," which is the very first spot water enters a community’s pipes after being treated. This helps experts identify any potential risks before the water ever reaches a kitchen sink.

So far, the results in Utah have been very positive. Most systems have not seen any PFAS levels above the safety limits set by federal regulators. By acting now, the Utah Division of Drinking Water is making sure the state stays ahead of any risks and keeps our water clean for generations to come.

For more information or to see the latest testing results for your community, visit our PFAS drinking water page.