New Hampshire grapples with PFAS contamination and MVD water agreements

On April 15, 2025, the New Hampshire Environmental Services Department convened a meeting to discuss critical issues surrounding water contamination and regulatory compliance, particularly focusing on per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The discussions highlighted ongoing concerns regarding the management of scrap steel and its associated contaminants, as well as the implications of recent legislative actions and agreements related to water safety.

A significant portion of the meeting centered on the handling of scrap steel, which is known to carry various contaminants. Officials emphasized the need for scrap yards to be aware of these hazards, particularly as the state prepares for potential new regulations regarding PFAS. The conversation underscored the importance of transparency and communication between scrap yards and regulatory bodies, especially in light of ongoing legislative efforts to address environmental contamination.

The meeting also revisited the implications of House Bill 478, which was introduced in 2021 in response to contamination issues linked to the Saint Gobain agreement with the Merrimack Water Village District. As the deadline for compliance approaches, concerns were raised about the adequacy of the existing agreement and the state's ability to intervene. Officials confirmed that the agreement had been thoroughly vetted and that the state was not in a position to amend it, leaving the Merrimack Village District to manage its own remediation efforts.

Participants expressed frustration over the perceived lack of accountability from companies responsible for contamination, particularly regarding the adequacy of current drinking water standards. The state currently enforces a standard of 12 parts per trillion for PFOA, but discussions indicated a growing consensus that this threshold is not protective enough. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is revisiting its standards, which could lead to a more stringent federal limit of 4 parts per trillion. The state is expected to align its regulations with any new federal standards, but the timeline for this transition remains uncertain.

The meeting concluded with a call for proactive measures to ensure safe drinking water for all residents, particularly those in areas affected by contamination. Participants highlighted the need for a legislative study commission to assess the fiscal impacts of adopting stricter standards, as municipalities may face significant challenges in compliance.

As New Hampshire navigates these complex environmental issues, the discussions from this meeting reflect a critical juncture in the state's approach to water safety and contamination management. The outcomes of these deliberations will likely have lasting implications for public health and environmental policy in the region.