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1. What are PFAS?

PFAS are a family of human-made chemicals that have been widely used for decades. PFAS are extremely stable and do not breakdown in the environment. PFAS have been found in the groundwater and surface water in Minnesota. Some PFAS can build up and stay in the human body for many years. They can also slowly decline if the exposure stops.

Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) - MN Dept. of Health

2. Is it Safe to Use and Drink My Tap Water?

Yes. Water from the Lino Lakes wells are within the limits for PFAS.

3. How Do I Know if My Private Well is Impacted by PFAS?

There are homes in Lino Lakes that are on their own private well. These wells are not tested or monitored for PFAS by the City of Lino Lakes. However, you can have your water tested by a private lab. 

At this time, the MDH does not recommend that every private well get tested for PFAS. If you use a private well for drinking water that is included in an existing environmental investigation near a known source of contamination, the MPCA will notify you if your well might be affected. Below is a list of links that you can use to see if your private well may be near a known source of PFAS contamination:

• Minnesota Groundwater Contamination Atlas | Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
• What's in My Neighborhood | Minnesota Pollution Control Agency
• Interactive Dashboard for PFAS Testing in Drinking Water | MN Dept. of Health

To have your private well's water tested, a list of accredited labs can be found on the MN Dept. of Health website.

4. Will the City's New Water Treatment Plan Address PFAS?

The City is in the process of constructing a water treatment plant. The current treatment process will not treat for PFAS in any form or compound. But with the increasing awareness and understanding of PFAS, the city has taken this into consideration when planning the site if a PFAS treatment process is needed for Lino Lakes’ water. The site and layout of the current plant is conducive to treat PFAS compounds if needed in the future. The new water treatment plant is scheduled to be completed in the fall of 2026. 

5. What Type of Private, At-Home Treatment Options are Available?

There is information on the MDH website regarding the effectiveness of home treatment options.