PFAS in Arizona

Last updated: July 16, 2025
Contributor: nicky

I have been following the growing concerns about PFAS contamination nationwide, and I want to share what I have discovered about PFAS in Arizona. PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a class of synthetic chemicals used widely for their resistance to heat, water, and oil. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), these compounds were found in the blood of 97% of Americans tested. In Arizona, the presence of PFAS has prompted state agencies, researchers, and communities to investigate the potential risks to drinking water, agriculture, and public health. In this article, I will outline what PFAS are, how they affect people in Arizona, and what steps you can take if you suspect PFAS contamination in your area.

PFAS are not new. They have been used for decades in firefighting foams, industrial applications, and consumer products. While their water- and grease-resistant properties make them commercially valuable, their persistence in the environment raises serious concerns. Over time, PFAS can accumulate in bodily tissues, potentially leading to adverse health effects. In Alaska, this has prompted government agencies, local communities, and private stakeholders to investigate contamination sites and to assist affected residents.

I have also noted that regulators are racing to introduce tougher standards on PFAS levels in drinking water. The Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continue to refine guidelines. With this article, my goal is to address the key points you should know about PFAS contamination in Alaska, from local hotspots to government interventions. If you think your water is affected, or if you have a PFAS-related medical diagnosis, you may have legal recourse.

What are PFAS and why are they dangerous?

PFAS chemicals do not break down easily in the environment, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.” Although production of certain PFAS, like PFOA and PFOS, has decreased in the United States since the early 2000s, new PFAS remain in use. The National Toxicology Program (NTP) found that PFOA and PFOS, in particular, can suppress antibody responses and hinder immune function in humans.

There are thousands of PFAS compounds, making it challenging for scientists to study them individually. However, experts agree these chemicals can accumulate over time in soil, water, and the human body. Research supported by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS) shows links between certain PFAS exposures and health problems, including kidney cancer, thyroid disease, and changes in liver function. Children may be especially vulnerable, as their developing bodies are more sensitive to chemical exposure.

Where are PFAS found in Arizona?

Arizona’s industrial, commercial, and military activities are potential sources of PFAS releases into water, soil, and air. The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) discovered PFAS in multiple public water systems and is expanding its testing efforts. According to the agency, PFAS have been traced to firefighting foams used at airports and defense sites, as well as the manufacturing processes of products that repel water or resist heat.

Researchers at Arizona State University (ASU) have also been studying PFAS contamination in groundwater. They have tested various treatment methods, such as granulated activated carbon (GAC), to find cost-effective ways to filter these chemicals. Despite ongoing efforts, more investigation is necessary to fully understand the extent of contamination in every county and the potential risks to human health.

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PFAS in Arizona’s drinking water

When I began examining PFAS Arizona reports, I found that public water sources face some of the most urgent scrutiny. These chemicals can seep into municipal water supplies through industrial discharge, landfills, and firefighting foam usage. Because PFAS are stable and do not degrade easily, they often linger in wells and aquifers, posing risks for long-term exposure.

Cities and counties with known PFAS contamination

In 2018, ADEQ launched a screening program that identified several cities and counties where PFAS levels surpassed recommended thresholds. The department periodically updates this data to track new findings and measure how contamination evolves statewide. While the state has not publicly released an exhaustive list of PFAS-impacted localities in recent months, counties with aerospace or defense installations are closely monitored because of potential firefighting foam use.

At the same time, local water utilities are working to test and treat water supplies. They commonly employ filtration methods such as GAC or ion-exchange resins. Under new federal regulations, all public water systems, including those serving fewer than 3,300 people, must regularly test for PFAS by 2027 and prepare treatment options if levels exceed limits set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). About 950 water systems in Arizona will likely be affected by this rule.

Testing and monitoring by Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ)

ADEQ collects and analyzes water samples from municipal sources. Through coordination with the Water Infrastructure Finance Authority of Arizona, the state has allocated federal funds to facilitate comprehensive PFAS testing. According to ADEQ, the data they collect is used to help municipalities understand the scope of contamination, adopt new filtration systems, and develop long-term remediation plans. Federal money, including over $1 billion made available through the Inflation Reduction Act, aims to help states nationwide, including Arizona, mitigate PFAS risks more efficiently.

Military and industrial sources of pollution

Military installations often use aqueous film-forming foams (AFFF) for firefighting, which contain PFAS. According to the Arizona Department of Defense, bases across the state have begun assessing contamination at their facilities, some of which are located near civilian populations. Industrial sites, especially those in aerospace, semiconductor manufacturing, and automotive industries, may also contribute to PFAS emissions. I have noticed that a growing number of these companies are reviewing their processes to limit the release of contaminants into nearby soil and water systems.

PFAS in Arizona’s soil and agriculture

PFAS reach soil through industrial runoff, contaminated groundwater, and landfill leachate. In Arizona, I have seen increased attention to agricultural fields located near areas with documented PFAS activities, because crops can absorb these substances from irrigation water. Over time, PFAS can build up in plant tissues and potentially enter the food chain, affecting livestock who consume contaminated feed.

However, the full extent of PFAS uptake by crops and animals is still a subject of research. The University of Arizona and ASU are conducting studies to measure PFAS levels in irrigation water and soil. ADEQ has also noted that more data is needed to determine whether local produce and livestock products contain PFAS at levels that pose a human health risk.

Health effects of PFAS exposure

Many health agencies, including the CDC and the NIEHS, recognize possible dangers linked to PFAS exposure. While not everyone exposed to these substances develops health problems, researchers have documented associations between certain PFAS and specific diseases. According to the NTP, exposure to PFOA and PFOS can impair immune response, making it less effective to fight infections or respond to vaccines.

Additionally, some studies suggest that high levels of PFAS can affect cholesterol levels or lead to liver damage. Research also shows links between PFAS and thyroid function, raising concerns about hormonal imbalances. Experts emphasize that long-term, low-level exposure may be as significant as short-term, high-level exposure, especially for children whose bodily systems are not fully developed.

PFAS-linked diseases in Arizona

As I looked through Arizona-specific studies, I saw that local residents are not immune to the health conditions associated with PFAS elsewhere in the country. Although not every person exposed to these substances will develop PFAS-related illnesses, understanding the most commonly studied health risks can help people and their healthcare providers recognize potential warning signs.

Kidney cancer

Kidney cancer has been mentioned in multiple studies that investigate long-term PFAS exposure. The kidney is responsible for filtering blood, and elevated levels of PFAS can accumulate there. Some national assessments suggest a correlation between PFAS consumption and higher rates of certain kidney cancers, though more data from Arizona’s public health surveillance programs is necessary to establish definitive links.

Testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is another condition sometimes flagged in PFAS research. Scientists hypothesize that endocrine disruption caused by these chemicals may affect hormone balance, potentially latching onto the processes that regulate testicular function. While research is still ongoing, I believe that greater awareness and further studies focusing on Arizona’s patient data could help clarify the potential connection.

Thyroid disease

According to various health organizations, PFAS exposure can harm thyroid function by mimicking or interfering with natural hormones that regulate metabolism. People with thyroid disorders may find that PFAS disrupts medication effectiveness or exacerbates symptoms. In Arizona, local health advocates encourage residents with thyroid concerns to discuss PFAS exposure with their primary care doctors, especially if they live near known contamination sites.

Liver damage and cholesterol changes

High cholesterol is a known issue connected to PFAS exposure. Researchers have found that these chemicals, particularly PFOS, can impact liver enzymes associated with cholesterol regulation. Over time, these disruptions may contribute to elevated LDL (“bad” cholesterol). The long-term impact includes potential risks for cardiovascular issues, making regular blood tests a prudent measure for individuals with suspected exposure to PFAS in Arizona.

How Arizona is responding to the PFAS crisis

I have watched Arizona’s efforts to handle PFAS concerns evolve over the last few years. Local agencies, federal authorities, and community stakeholders are collaborating to identify contamination sources, monitor water quality, and protect residents from health risks. Although the PFAS crisis remains complex, multiple measures are underway to address both immediate and long-range issues.

ADEQ actions and groundwater investigations

ADEQ spearheads many of the state’s PFAS-related initiatives by conducting groundwater investigations, enforcing testing requirements, and issuing health advisories when appropriate. The agency’s early screening program in 2018 concentrated on public water systems, and they continue to broaden their scope to smaller water providers. ADEQ also collaborates with local organizations to find solutions for removing PFAS, focusing on proven methods like carbon filtering and ion-exchange resins.

Community health advisories and EPA involvement

The EPA sets national standards for PFAS monitoring and cleanup, and Arizona aligns its guidelines with federal recommendations. In locations where PFAS levels exceed these benchmarks, ADEQ issues community health advisories. These advisories often include guidelines for using bottled water or recommending additional home filtration systems. The EPA offers technical support and has plans for future mandated PFAS monitoring that will inform cleanup strategies, including the potential listing of PFAS chemicals under hazardous-substance regulations.

Cleanup plans and legal developments

Remediation projects in Arizona include filtration upgrades, chemical destruction research, and safe disposal methods of PFAS-laden materials. In some regions, local governments and utilities are discussing legal action against manufacturers that produced or used PFAS. Nationwide, several lawsuits aim to hold major chemical companies accountable for polluting water supplies.

If you have experienced harm from PFAS contamination, you may be eligible for compensation. Legal proceedings often reveal more about how widespread contamination has become and can fund cleanup and medical monitoring. In Arizona, these cases may involve private well owners, municipal water systems, or individuals who have developed PFAS-linked diseases.

Can you test your water or soil for PFAS in Arizona?

Testing for PFAS is available for both municipal water authorities and private homeowners. If you use private well water, it is important to carry out periodic testing, especially if you live near military bases, airports, industrial sites, or landfills. Specialty environmental labs can analyze water and soil samples for a range of PFAS chemicals. Depending on the results, you might need to install a certified home filtration system or explore alternative water sources.

Consulting with your local water utility or ADEQ can be a good starting point for learning more about testing options in your neighborhood. Some laboratories also offer do-it-yourself testing kits, but confirm whether the kit meets state or federal standards and can detect all major PFAS compounds.

Do you qualify for a PFAS lawsuit in Arizona?

Individuals and families who have suffered health issues potentially tied to PFAS might be eligible to pursue legal claims. Lawsuits may target manufacturers, industrial users, or other parties who released PFAS into the environment. To determine if you qualify, you should compile any evidence of exposure, such as water test results, medical records, or location-based documentation showing you lived near a PFAS source.

If you believe your illness or property damage stems from PFAS, you can explore your legal options. I recommend consulting with legal professionals who specialize in environmental or personal injury law. Many attorneys provide free evaluations to see if you have a potential case.

Why choose Legal Claim Assistant

Selecting the right legal support can be crucial if you suspect your health or property has been damaged by PFAS exposure. Legal Claim Assistant focuses on connecting you to experienced attorneys who understand PFAS litigation. By reviewing your case details, they can help you determine the likelihood of a successful outcome. If you want to learn more about PFAS lawsuits, I encourage you to visit their dedicated page: PFAS Lawsuit

Legal Claim Assistant also offers information on related litigation, including:

I have seen these resources provide answers to frequently asked questions, outline next steps, and clarify how compensation might be determined. They can also assist you in exploring potential class actions or individual lawsuits, depending on the circumstances surrounding your exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Over time, I have gathered some of the most frequently asked questions about PFAS in Arizona. Below are concise answers, guided by data from ADEQ, the CDC, and other verified sources.

Where in Arizona has PFAS been detected?

PFAS have been found in many public water systems across the state, with heightened attention on regions near aerospace, defense, or firefighting activities. ADEQ’s screening programs extend to large and small water utilities, but community-level test results vary. You can look for local advisories posted on the ADEQ website to see if your area has recorded any exceedances.

Can I test my well or city water for PFAS?

Yes. ADEQ encourages homeowners who rely on private wells to conduct screening if their property is near known PFAS sites. Municipal water systems already carry out testing, especially if they serve more than 3,300 people. If you suspect contamination, contact an accredited lab that offers PFAS testing for well water or soil samples.

What is the state doing to manage PFAS exposure?

Arizona primarily manages PFAS exposure through ADEQ programs, which involve testing, issuing public health advisories, and promoting remediation. The state collaborates with the EPA on setting regulatory limits, while using federal funds to make PFAS testing and treatment more accessible. Some local governments are also exploring legal actions against PFAS manufacturers and industrial polluters.

Are Arizona farms affected by PFAS in groundwater?

In some cases, farmland irrigated with contaminated water could absorb PFAS into soil and crops, though the extent of contamination varies. Researchers from Arizona State University are studying PFAS uptake in agriculture. More data is necessary to fully map any specific impacts on livestock, produce, or overall soil quality.

What illnesses are linked to PFAS exposure?

Kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, and liver-related issues have been associated with PFAS exposure. Elevated cholesterol levels and compromised immune response are also common findings in individuals with high PFAS levels. If you suspect PFAS-related health problems, consult your physician for guidance on testing and follow-up care.

Can I file a PFAS lawsuit in Arizona?

You may be eligible to file a lawsuit if you can demonstrate that PFAS exposure caused your health problems or property damage. These legal actions typically address negligence by manufacturers or industries that released PFAS into water supplies. For legal guidance, you can consult Legal Claim Assistant to explore whether you have grounds for a valid claim.