DURHAM, N.C. (WNCN) — A creek that generates a source of drinking water for Durham residents has seen an increase in pollutants and chemical activity, according to new research released last week from North Carolina Central University and RTI International.
The new study, conducted over a span of six months in 2022, found more than 1,300 chemical features, an increase in usual activity for a creek, inside the Third Fork Creek.
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According to researchers, the chemicals found in the creek came from everyday products. The identified compounds included medications, pesticides, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, plastic additives, cleaning products and other common household items.
“Non-targeted analysis helps us spot emerging contaminants and get a clearer picture of what’s in our waterways,” said RTI research scientist Imari Walker-Franklin, Ph.D. “Seeing how those patterns shift over time can help communities make more informed decisions about water quality.”…