MARINETTE, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – ‘Low’ levels of polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) were detected in the Peshtigo River, according to a recent sampling done by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
Four sites on and near the Peshtigo River were tested earlier this month for PFAS, man-made chemicals used in a variety of non-stick products such as firefighting foam.
Johnson Controls admitted it used firefighting foam containing PFAS at its Tyco Fire Products testing facility in Marinette.
The sites tested for the Peshtigo River are above Highway 64 at the boat landing, below the Peshtigo Flowage and below the city of Peshtigo.
According to the state, “If PFAS are found, this monitoring design should help determine if sources are from the upstream watershed or from more localized sources within the city of Peshtigo.”
The DNR held a listening session last night in Marinette at the Community REC Center to address the public’s questions and concerns.
Other public listening sessions are planned for as follows:
Wednesday, Nov. 20, 2019, Noon-1:30 p.m. & 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Dec. 18, 2019, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Jan. 15, 2020, Noon-1:30 p.m. & 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2020, 6:00-7:30 p.m.
According to the CDC, PFAS can increase cancer risk, affect growth, learning, and women’s fertility.
Currently, the DNR is working to create human health surface water quality criteria and standards.
The DNR says PFAS has also contaminated creeks in Dane and Monroe counties as well as portions of the Mississippi, Wisconsin and Menominee rivers.
