The water coming out of your tap may be clear, but that doesn’t mean it’s totally safe to drink. In fact, for at least six Georgia communities, there’s real cause for concern.
Recently, USA Today posted a map of public drinking water systems across the country that submitted test results to the Environmental Protection Agency for PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals.” Here’s what was reported:
PFAS detected in Georgia
The following six public water systems in Georgia were found to have “forever chemical” levels well over the EPA limit:
- Augusta-Richmond County Water System: 10.9 times over the limit
- Calhoun: 3.7 times over the limit
- Columbus: 4.3 times over the limit
- Chattooga County: 4.5 times over the limit
- Lafayette: 7.1 times over the limit
- Chickamauga: 3.1 times over the limit
What are forever chemicals?
PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals,” are defined by the EPA as long-lasting chemicals with components that break down very slowly over time. Because of the widespread use of these chemicals, they are found in water, air, soil, fish and even human blood in varying levels. Scientific studies have shown that exposure to some of these chemicals may be linked to harmful health effects in humans and animals.
As a result, the EPA established legally enforceable levels in 2024 for six PFAS in public drinking water. Public water systems must monitor for these chemicals and take action to reduce the levels of these chemicals if they violate the EPA’s standards. They must also provide notification to the public of the violation.
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Can PFAS be filtered out of water?
Not all filters reduce PFAS in water, so you should look for a filter that is specifically certified to do so, according to the EPA. The agency recommends using the following types of water filters:
- Charcoal (Granular Activated Carbon or GAC): These filters use carbon to trap chemicals as water passes through them.
- Reverse Osmosis (RO) Systems: Reverse osmosis is a process that forces water through an extremely thin barrier that separates chemicals from the water.
- Ion Exchange Resins: Resins are tiny beads that act like powerful magnets that attract and hold the contaminated materials from passing through the water system.
Are forever chemicals in your water? Check the map
While the six above have the highest level of PFAS, we also found more than a dozen other Georgia municipalities with levels over the EPA’s limit in their water supplies. Search for your home’s supply with the interactive map below:…