City Water & PFAS

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a family of man-made chemical compounds that persist in the environment for long periods of time. They are often called “forever chemicals.” For decades, PFAS chemicals have been used in industry and consumer products such as nonstick cookware, waterproof clothing, and stain resistant furniture. These chemicals have been important for certain industries and uses. And the latest science shows that these chemicals are harmful to our health.

In Minnesota, PFAS contamination was first measured in the eastern Twin Cities in the early 2000s. Since then, PFAS have been detected in water, sediment, soil, and fish across Minnesota. PFAS are in air emissions from industrial facilities, wastewater from industrial and municipal sources, soil and water surrounding firefighting training sites, groundwater surrounding landfills, and are sometimes found with no obvious source at all.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) established National Primary Drinking Water Regulations for six particular PFAS compounds on April 10, 2024, including Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) for PFOA and PFOS. In addition, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has established health-based guidance values for six particular PFAS compounds that are used to calculate a health risk index (HRI). 

The City of Lino Lakes’ water supply system includes six groundwater production wells. The city annually tests wells for a number of potential contaminants in accordance with MDH requirements. Recent PFAS results for one of the City wells, Well No. 2, exceeded new regulatory limits set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency EPA in April 2024.  The PFOA concentration measured in Well No. 2 exceeds the new EPA MCL for PFOA.  Results received from other wells indicated that, where present, PFAS levels are well below regulatory guidelines.

Well No. 2 has not been used since 2019 due to its poor water quality. It has the highest manganese concentrations of the six wells, exceeding MDH health guidelines, and in addition, its iron and manganese concentrations are an aesthetic concern because they can cause staining and a metallic taste.  The recent PFAS results are further reason to restrict the use of this well.

Private well owners should also be aware of the possibility of PFAS in your water supply. Resources and guidance are available through MDH and the attached FAQ sheet

The City and MDH will continue to monitor PFAS concentrations and adjust well pumping accordingly. This information is ever evolving, and the city is continuously monitoring the EPA’s and MDH’s guidance on PFAS Maximum Containment Levels and are always considering the health and safety of the residents.