Michigan National Guard reports PFAS sampling remains below new EPA limits; more testing planned

Jonathan Edgerly, Environmental Manager for the Michigan Army National Guard, briefed the Eagle Township Board on July 18 about an ongoing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) investigation at the Grand Ledge Army aviation support facility.

Edgerly said the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has issued new, lower maximum levels for PFAS compounds in drinking water. He reported that residential and facility wells previously sampled are still below those new EPA levels. Edgerly added that the project is managed at the federal level by the National Guard Bureau, that additional field sampling is planned for the fall, and that a final work plan will be provided when completed. He said communications will be sent to affected households describing the change in EPA levels and any next steps.

The update provided a snapshot of current sampling results rather than a final risk assessment. The board did not take formal action on the PFAS item during the July 18 meeting; the report served as an informational update.

Edgerly's presentation underscores two near-term developments: the EPA's revised drinking-water guidance for PFAS and the National Guard's plan for continued sampling and a forthcoming work plan. The township has been informed that individual well results sampled to date remain below the new EPA thresholds.

The board can expect further technical details and outreach materials when the final work plan and additional sampling results are available later this year.