Woodstock lab results for samples of the “forever chemicals” PFOS taken May 7 and released June 19 were transcribed incorrectly, Woodstock town supervisor Bill McKenna announced July 3.
Revised results show 2.39 parts per trillion of PFOS from Pumphouse 1, where previously it had been reported as below the 1.86 ppt [parts per trillion] reporting limit.
Test results in the 2023 annual water report showed 3.48 ppt, up from 0.86 the previous year. Town residents have clamored for answers at recent town meetings.
Some 23 other chemical substances showed below reportable levels.
McKenna said he has ordered tests of other wells. McKenna has committed to testing the water supply more often than once a year, as was past practice. He has also suggested the use of ZeroWater’s filter pitcher model ZP-007RP, which is certified to remove PFOA and PFOS and is recommended by county health officials. It is available from Amazon and other retailers.
In April, the EPA set a new standard for PFOS in water, which is not yet in effect, at four parts per trillion. New York State’s limit is ten parts per trillion. Many experts say there is no safe amount of PFOS.
Councilmember Anula Courtis will host a town-hall-style meeting about town water on July 24 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Mescal Hornbeck Community Center, 56 Rock City Road. State and county experts will be on hand. A question-and-answer session will follow.
PFOS belong to a group of “forever” chemicals used to make products resistant to stains, grease, soil and water. According to the federal Environmental Protection Agency, its components break down very slowly and are found in the blood of people and animals. The chemicals may lead to increased risks cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.
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