Woburn's High PFAS Levels Continued In Q4 Tests

WOBURN, MA — Woburn's public water remained above the state limit for PFAS in fourth-quarter samples, on average, according to the latest numbers published by the city.

The city's water tested on average at 22 parts per trillion across five tests from Oct. to Dec., according to the city website. The state maximum contaminant level for drinking water, set in Oct. 2020, is 20 parts per trillion.

Only the first of the four tests was over 20 parts per trillion, but it was significantly over at 27, while the three subsequent tests were just under, at 19.8, 19.6 and 19.9 parts per trillion.

The state line, 20 parts per trillion, is lower than the federal limit of 70 parts per trillion set in 2016.

The city first reported elevated PFAS levels in December, after third-quarter tests averaged 24 parts per trillion PFAS.

In response, the city introduced a bottled water rebate program for sensitive groups Jan. 6. Residents in the affected groups can get $30 per month rebates from the city to purchase bottled water for each quarter in which the drinking water is out of compliance with state standards. The latest sample means affected residents will be able to get at least $180, for July through December 2021.

The state Department of Environmental Protection recommends sensitive groups including "pregnant or nursing women, infants under one year of age and people diagnosed by their health care provider to have a compromised immune system" not consume, drink or cook with water above the 20 part per trillion standard.

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.