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County hires firm for PFAS mitigation planning at two wells; designs due for 2027 compliance
Summary
Washington County approved a $69,350 contract with Bukhart Horn to produce a PFAS mitigation plan for Mount Etna and Sandy Hook wells. State limits expected in 2027 require mitigation plans in 2026 and implementation by 2027, county staff said; other engineering bids were substantially higher.
The county approved a proposal from Bukhart Horn in the amount of $69,350 to prepare a PFAS mitigation plan for the Mount Etna and Sandy Hook wells.
Deputy Director Joe Moss said Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) notified the county in 2024 that raw water from both wells tested positive for PFAS, a class of synthetic compounds. MDE is expected to establish limits effective in 2027; the agency advised the county that mitigation plans must be developed by 2026 and implemented by 2027 to maintain permit compliance.
The mitigation planning scope will evaluate three treatment options to remove PFAS from raw water and recommend systems for each well; completed designs will be submitted to MDE for approval and permitting. Moss told commissioners that consultant bids varied widely — Bukhart Horn’s proposal was $69,350 while other proposals went as high as $455,000 — and staff judged Bukhart Horn experienced with similarly sized systems.
Why it matters: The plan is preparatory but time‑sensitive due to the expected regulatory limits and construction timelines; upgrades must be online by 2027. The board voted to approve the contract 5‑0.
Ending: Design and permitting work will proceed under the consultant contract; the county will return to the board for construction funding when designs and MDE approvals are complete.
