For the Hub City Times

MARSHFIELD – Marshfield Utilities (MU) recently shut down several wells due to PFAS levels.

“Marshfield Utilities pumps water from 15 wells that collects at three entry points for treatment and
connection to the distribution system,” a release from MU stated.

“Marshfield Utilities proactively and voluntarily collected water samples of the Utilities’ drinking
water at the three entry points and tested them for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances
(PFAS).”

Testing found some PFAS compounds at Southside Booster Station entry point that were present at levels above Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) health recommended
advisory levels.

“PFAS levels at the other Utilities’ entry points into the distribution system were not at levels of health concern. PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in many products since the 1950s,” the release added.

“At this time, the risk to health is low. Marshfield Utilities is not in violation of any drinking water standards or regulations and has proactively taken actions to protect the health of its customers. On May 24, 2022 upon receiving the results of the levels, Marshfield Utilities shut off Southside Booster Station and the four wells that contribute water to that booster station. Marshfield Utilities will only be using water from wells with levels below DHS Health Advisory/Hazard Index recommended guidance levels. People and businesses can continue to use the water from Marshfield Utilities.

“In addition to shutting off Southside Booster Station, along with the four wells that contribute
water to the booster station, Marshfield Utilities will be testing each of the four individual wells to
see if any or all of the wells have PFAS levels at or above the DHS Health Advisory/Hazard Index
guidance levels.

“In addition Marshfield Utilities will start to look at other future options such as treatment to remove PFAS from the water at this location and/or new wells to produce potable drinking water in other locations.”

For information about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), including what they are, how
these substances get into drinking water and more, visit https://www.marshfieldutilities.org/customer-
information/pdf/2022_PFAS_FAQs.pdf.

If you have questions regarding Marshfield Utilities drinking water or the testing, contact: John W. Richmond, PE, water manager 715-898-2170 or [email protected].