Yarmouth officials seek action on PFAS contamination with Kleinfelder's guidance

Concerns over PFAS contamination took center stage at the Town of Yarmouth Select Board meeting on April 15, 2025, as experts provided updates on ongoing assessments and remediation efforts. The discussion highlighted the potential health risks associated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have been detected in local groundwater and shellfish, raising alarms among residents and officials alike.

Lisa Stone and Nathan Stevens from Kleinfelder, a consulting firm specializing in environmental assessments, presented their findings on PFAS in the area. They emphasized the widespread nature of these chemicals, often found in products like firefighting foams and waterproofing agents, and their potential health impacts, including developmental issues and liver damage. The experts noted that while Massachusetts regulates six specific PFAS compounds, thousands more exist, complicating cleanup efforts.

The Select Board expressed frustration over the lack of transparency from neighboring entities, particularly the airport and firefighting training academy, regarding the sources of contamination. Board members underscored the need for aggressive advocacy with the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) to ensure comprehensive testing and accountability.

A significant point of discussion was the proposal to install additional monitoring wells in Yarmouth to better understand the extent of PFAS contamination and its sources. The board also considered the importance of sampling shellfish in affected areas, as elevated PFAS levels have been detected in local marine life.

As the meeting concluded, the Select Board committed to drafting a proposal for the DEP, outlining necessary actions to protect public health and the environment. The urgency of the situation was clear, with board members acknowledging the complex nature of PFAS contamination and the need for a coordinated response to safeguard the community.