Researchers outline plan to use native microbes and biofilms to destroy PFAS in groundwater; Lake Elmo identified as potential field site

A multi‑partner research project funded by the Minnesota LCCMR will explore whether native microbial communities and engineered biofilms can be used to destroy PFAS in contaminated groundwater, Freshwater project lead Seth Thompson told the Lake Elmo City Council on May 5.

Project overview: Thompson said Freshwater is the prime recipient on a $1.3 million award running from July (year unspecified in public packet) through June 2028 with Bay West and the University of Minnesota as technical leads. The project’s aim is to isolate microbes from many groundwater‑impacted sites, analyze their genetic/metabolic potential with metagenomics, and develop stable biofilms for bench and eventual field testing.

Local sampling and logistics: Thompson said the team is seeking partner field sites and specifically mentioned Lake Elmo among candidate impacted groundwater locations where the researchers would collect samples for metagenomic analysis and basic water chemistry. He emphasized that initial lab and bench‑scale work will be done at university or partner labs; field injections and demonstrations would be at least a year to 18 months out if laboratory results are promising.

University role and methods: Staff and council asked about the University of Minnesota’s involvement; Freshwater confirmed Dr. Cara Sentelli (U of M) will lead the microbial genomics portion. Thompson described metagenomics as a way to capture the entire genetic content of a microbial community to infer metabolic pathways relevant to contaminant degradation.

Next steps: Staff said the city could coordinate sampling if the researchers request access to local field sites, and the research team will return with timelines for bench testing and any required permits or property agreements.