(WIFR) – Dozens of Illinois communities are alerting residents after “forever chemicals” were detected in their water systems.
In the stateline, notices about the detection of one or more Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances or PFAS have gone out to residents in Machesney Park, Freeport and Rockton.
The Environmental Protection Agency explains PFAS are widely used, long-lasting chemicals which break down slowly over time. Studies have shown exposure to some PFAS in the environment may be linked to harmful health effects in humans and animals.
According to the Illinois EPA, PFAS have been found in:
- Plants, fruits and vegetables
- Livestock, including milk from dairy cows
- Wildlife
- Freshwater fish
- Waterfowl
The Illinois EPA explains residents are receiving the notifications because of newly enacted groundwater quality standards…