The Denver Post recently reported the discovery of PFAS, perfluoroalkyl substances, hot spots across the metro Denver area. No PFAS compounds have been detected in the city’s drinking water.

PFAS are a group of chemicals used in firefighting foam, carpets, clothing, food packaging and other materials to make them more resistant to water, grease or stains. PFAS have been used for decades, but as scientific techniques have improved, researchers have made significant advances in detecting the impacts of PFAS on public health and the environment.

As part of the EPA’s Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule, the city tested its drinking water for six PFAS compounds (which includes PFOS and PFOA) on a quarterly basis between March 2014 and March 2015.

One of the city’s core functions is to provide water and sewer service to protect the health and safety of its residents. The city will continue to comply with state and federal requirements to test drinking water for PFAS and other contaminants of concern. 

The fate and transport of PFAS compounds in the environment and the human health impacts have garnered the attention of the scientific and regulatory communities and will guide the path forward in addressing this complex issue.

Learn more about your drinking water by reading our most recent water quality report.