Conifer's water and sanitation districts are facing significant challenges due to new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulations concerning PFAS, commonly known as "forever chemicals." During a recent government meeting, officials discussed the implications of these regulations, which are expected to impact water systems throughout the region, including the Shadow Mountain Bike Park's well and on-site wastewater treatment systems.

The new regulations set a stringent limit of four parts per trillion for PFAS, a class of chemicals that have been linked to various health risks. Officials noted that many facilities have not previously tested for these chemicals, and those that did often did not report their findings. This lack of data complicates the understanding of PFAS contamination levels in Conifer's water systems.

The state is initiating a process to require testing and reporting of PFAS levels, which is a crucial first step in addressing the issue. However, the financial implications of compliance are daunting. Estimates suggest that addressing PFAS contamination could cost trillions of dollars, raising concerns about the availability of funding for necessary cleanup efforts.

The meeting highlighted the complexity of the PFAS issue, including the challenges of managing contaminated materials and the potential for ongoing exposure to these harmful chemicals. As the community grapples with these new regulations, officials emphasized the need for a comprehensive understanding of the extent of PFAS contamination in surface water, wastewater, and groundwater systems.

In addition to the PFAS discussion, concerns were raised about the impact of ongoing construction on the local aquifer, further complicating the water management landscape in Conifer. As the community moves forward, the focus will be on gathering data, understanding the full scope of the contamination, and developing strategies to ensure safe and clean water for residents.