Water Department outlines PFAS treatment strategies for community safety

During the recent Durham City Council work session held on May 22, 2025, significant discussions centered around the ongoing efforts to address PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination in the city's water supply. Lori Montgomery, a senior engineer from the water management department, provided an update on the city's proactive measures to test and treat PFAS levels, which have garnered increased attention due to their potential health impacts.

Montgomery explained that the city began its PFAS studies in January 2024, conducting extensive sampling and evaluating various treatment alternatives. The findings revealed that current treatment plants are unable to effectively remove PFAS from the water supply. As a result, the city has identified powdered activated carbon (PAC) as the most viable treatment option, which is both cost-effective and compliant with existing regulations. The implementation of PAC is expected to enhance the treatment processes at the Brown Water Treatment Plant.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently extended the compliance deadline for PFAS regulations to April 2026, allowing the city additional time to refine its treatment strategies. Montgomery emphasized that this extension provides an opportunity to explore advanced technologies for PFAS destruction, which are currently under research. The city plans to continue its efforts to meet regulatory standards by 2028, while also engaging the public through outreach events to raise awareness about PFAS and its sources.

The council members expressed their support for the ongoing initiatives and highlighted the importance of public education regarding PFAS, which are found not only in water but also in various household products. The discussions underscored the collective responsibility of both the city and its residents to mitigate PFAS contamination and protect public health.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted Durham's commitment to addressing PFAS contamination through proactive measures and community engagement. As the city moves forward with its treatment plans and public outreach, it aims to ensure a safer water supply for its residents while adapting to evolving regulations and technologies.