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Blackstone water report: PFAS readings rise at two wells; crews respond to leaks and sewer blockages
Summary
Water & Sewer Department staff reported Feb. 13 that PFAS readings rose at Well 2 and Well 7, Well 5 was cleaned and returned to service, crews addressed multiple water main breaks and discolored water calls, and sewer crews continue work on a recurring blockage on Meadow Lane attributed to inappropriate items being flushed.
Water and sewer staff reported multiple operational issues and test results to the Town of Blackstone Water & Sewer Commission on Feb. 13.
In routine sampling, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) readings increased year-over-year at some wells. The commission record shows Well 2 measured about 8.2 (units not specified in transcript) in 02/2024 and rose to about 20.7 in 02/2025; Well 7 measured about 10.5 last year and was reported at 21.7 in the first test this year, with a retest a week later at 18.3. Staff said PFAS testing is required yearly for all wells; the water treatment facility is tested monthly and Well 6 quarterly. Well 5 was cleaned and returned to service.
Staff described multiple January water main breaks and numerous calls about discolored water. They explained that when a break occurs the changed flow can disturb sediment in mains, causing temporary discoloration even though storage tanks and wells continue to supply water. Crews flushed hydrants and repaired leaks on Mendon Street and Prospect Street. Water meters were read this week and bills are expected to be mailed March 14.
Crew and staff work items included: a purchase order requested for cleaning Well 9 (low bidder), lead service inventory outreach (no lead service lines found so far), and continued SCADA updates (new panels, radio telemetry and transducer installations). Staff reported a recent VFD was left off during work and has since been addressed.
On the sewer side, the commission heard about recurring sewer problems on Meadow Lane tied to non-degradable items introduced into the system. Staff have spent extensive time and expense addressing blockages; the town sent letters to homeowners asking residents to limit what is flushed to human waste and toilet paper only, noting flushable wipes and garbage disposals can cause clogs, damage pumps and increase repair costs. Staff plan to camera the line when weather permits, after shutting down and draining the street pump systems to isolate the blockage.
Ending: Staff will continue monitoring PFAS results, complete the Well 9 cleaning procurement and pursue the Meadow Lane camera investigation when conditions allow. Commissioners asked staff to continue outreach on sewer use and to provide updates as testing and repairs progress.
