Michigan PFAS Action Response Team addresses contamination at Decorative Panels International in Alpena

The Alpena City Council meeting on January 6, 2025, spotlighted critical discussions surrounding PFAS contamination linked to Decorative Panels International (DPI), a former particle board manufacturing facility. The Michigan PFAS Action Response Team (MPART) provided an overview of the ongoing efforts to address these hazardous substances, which are known for their persistence in the environment and potential health risks.

The meeting revealed that DPI, located at 416 Ford Avenue, has been under scrutiny following an anonymous complaint regarding a possible PFAS release. Investigations by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) confirmed the presence of PFAS in groundwater samples, with four out of six samples exceeding state criteria for PFOA, a specific type of PFAS. The highest recorded level was 14.9 parts per trillion, surpassing the state standard of 8 parts per trillion.

EGLE's findings indicated that the contamination is primarily associated with a fire suppression system at DPI that utilized aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), a known source of PFAS. The agency is now working closely with DPI to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and to determine the extent of the contamination.

In response to concerns about public safety, it was noted that the City of Alpena's municipal water supply has consistently tested nondetect for PFAS, providing some reassurance to residents. However, the council emphasized the importance of ongoing monitoring and remediation efforts, particularly as the site transitions to potential new uses following its recent closure.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from EGLE to continue engaging with DPI and to explore various remediation strategies, including the possibility of treating contaminated water from the facility's lagoons. The council and community members expressed a strong interest in ensuring that any future development of the site prioritizes public health and environmental safety.