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WTD says biosolids testing for PFAS has been ongoing; results to be shared with RWQC
Summary
King County Wastewater Treatment Division told the committee it has voluntarily tested biosolids for PFAS since 2023, plans to publish results to RWQC members and the public, and emphasized prevention and producer responsibility as long‑term solutions.
Cameron Gurel, director of the King County Wastewater Treatment Division, briefed the Regional Water Quality Committee on Feb. 5 on biosolids and per‑ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Gurel said the division has long tested and reported on biosolids and began proactive, voluntary PFAS testing in 2023 to understand how those compounds appear in the wastewater system.
"In the coming months, we're going to make the testing results available to RWQC members, partner agencies, [and] the general public," Gurel said, adding that WTD would continue to work with Public Health — Seattle & King County and other experts to interpret results and to develop a risk profile. He emphasized that WTD aims to keep biosolids used on farms and forestry sites protective of human and environmental health.
Gurel told the committee that preventing PFAS and other toxics from entering the system is the most effective solution and urged producer responsibility so costs are not borne by ratepayers. He described outreach to reporters after a Seattle Times piece on WTD's Loop biosolids, outreach that included a tour of the South Plant where Loop is processed. WTD staff said they will provide links to the Times story and the division’s video material to committee members.
Committee members did not take formal action on the item. Several members thanked staff for transparency and asked that the forthcoming data be distributed to the committee and partners.
