PFAS in Delaware

PFAS in Delaware’s drinking water

I recognize that the safety of our drinking water is a primary concern for Delaware residents. PFAS can seep into public water systems through well fields located near contaminated industrial sites or near areas where firefighting foam has been heavily used. Since PFAS are highly soluble, they can move through soil into groundwater or surface water sources. To protect public health, federal and state agencies have begun mandatory testing of public water supplies, establishing new maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) and enforcing stricter rules on water providers.

Confirmed contamination sites

DNREC investigations have confirmed elevated PFAS levels in certain drinking water sources, particularly near military bases or industrial complexes. A notable example is New Castle, where in 2014, two drinking water systems showed PFAS concentrations exceeding the EPA’s provisional health advisory at that time. An additional well from Artesian’s system also surpassed advisory levels in 2016. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), blood samples taken from long-time residents in these areas had PFAS levels up to 9.8 times higher than national averages. Officials believe these figures stem from past water contamination and additional exposure pathways, such as household dust.

PFAS sources: Firefighting foam, industrial waste, landfills

I have seen firefighting foam widely implicated as a major PFAS contributor in Delaware and elsewhere. Airports, air force bases, and industrial sites once used aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) that contained PFOA, PFOS, and other PFAS. These substances can migrate into local groundwater through runoff or infiltration. Meanwhile, certain industries that utilize PFAS for coatings, water-repellency, or specialized manufacturing processes sometimes release PFAS in their wastewater. Landfills that receive PFAS-containing waste can further extend contamination if leachate is not properly controlled. DNREC’s updated 2023 policy includes more robust sampling of these sources to understand and mitigate ongoing risks.

Delaware DNREC and EPA test results

DNREC and the EPA have significantly ramped up testing for PFAS compounds in public drinking-water supplies and private wells. The EPA’s April 2024 rule designated PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under CERCLA, empowering investigators to identify, clean up, and even penalize entities responsible for significant PFAS releases. In parallel, Delaware introduced state-level regulations setting PFAS limits in public drinking systems at 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS, and 10 ppt each for PFNA, PFHxS, and GenX.

Water utilities like Veolia and Artesian have installed advanced filtration systems, such as activated carbon or ion-exchange technology, to reduce PFAS levels. As of 2029, public water systems must fully comply with these MCLs, and they are required to make PFAS monitoring data publicly available. If a test reveals PFAS levels above these standards, authorities can mandate additional treatments, shut down contaminated wells, or advise residents on steps to reduce personal exposure.

PFAS in Delaware’s soil and agriculture

PFAS contamination does not stop at water sources. I have learned that it also affects farmland and horticultural operations, posing potential long-term risks to those who live and work in these areas. The chemicals can accumulate in crops when contaminated biosolids are used as fertilizer or when irrigation water contains PFAS.

PFAS in farmland and biosolids

Some farmers in Delaware may inadvertently introduce PFAS into their soil through biosolids (treated sewage sludge) and compost. While biosolids can be beneficial by providing nutrients to crops, if those biosolids contain PFAS, the chemicals could persist and accumulate in the fields. The DNREC’s 2023 update now requires select PFAS sampling in multiple environmental media, including soil and biosolids sites, under the Hazardous Substance Cleanup Act (HSCA).

Food chain and crop contamination risk

The presence of PFAS in agricultural settings raises questions around human food sources. Vegetables, fruits, and grains irrigated with PFAS-laden water might contain low but measurable PFAS concentrations. Similarly, livestock that consume contaminated feed or water could pass PFAS on through meat, eggs, or dairy. Although scientists continue to investigate how PFAS transfer from farmland to the dinner table, the potential risk is significant enough that DNREC, along with the Division of Public Health, are working closely with federal agencies to develop guidelines on safe biosolids use and farmland remediation.

Health effects of PFAS exposure

For many people I have talked with, the dangers of PFAS come down to long-term health outcomes. The CDC and ATSDR classify certain PFAS chemicals as possible contributors to:

• Hormone disruption and thyroid disorders
• Immune system impairment
• Elevated cholesterol and liver enzyme abnormalities
• Kidney and testicular cancers
• Developmental concerns in children, including immune and neurological effects

Even though health research on PFAS is ongoing, the data so far indicate that these chemicals can affect multiple organ systems. They may increase the risk of some cancers and may worsen existing health conditions. Because PFAS stay in the body for extended periods, repeated or prolonged exposures can gradually increase the likelihood of harmful effects.

Diseases linked to PFAS in Delaware

Observing patterns in Delaware and other states, I see that PFAS-related diseases often center on organs like the kidneys, liver, and thyroid. Below are the specific conditions experts have associated with PFAS exposure.

Kidney cancer

Kidney cancer has frequently been linked to PFOA exposure in larger epidemiological studies. Numerous Delaware residents relying on contaminated well water or living near known PFAS hotspots have raised concerns about increased incidences of renal malignancies. While PFAS exposure is just one of many possible contributing factors to kidney cancer, medical professionals recommend that anyone with elevated PFAS levels discuss regular screenings with a healthcare provider.

Testicular cancer

Testicular cancer has also emerged as a concern, particularly among communities situated near industrial sites or firefighting training areas where highly concentrated PFAS foam was used. Researchers note that these claims require continued investigation, but the potential link has prompted calls for more focused epidemiological studies in heavily affected neighborhoods.

Liver damage

Exposure to PFAS can strain the liver. Studies suggest that elevated PFAS levels might correspond with changes in liver enzymes, as well as fatty liver disease. In Delaware, the combination of PFAS contamination in drinking water and an overall increase in lifestyle-related liver conditions have heightened the call for broader screenings and more longitudinal data to distinguish PFAS-specific causes.

Thyroid issues

Thyroid problems vary widely, from hypothyroidism to hyperthyroidism, and can influence metabolism and overall health. While the exact mechanism by which PFAS may interfere with thyroid hormone production is still under examination, preliminary research indicates a possible correlation. DNREC’s health advisories encourage people in high-exposure areas to watch for symptoms such as unexpected weight changes or chronic fatigue.

Reproductive and immune disorders

Certain PFAS chemicals are suspected of contributing to immune system suppression, leading some researchers to worry that children exposed to high PFAS levels might face increased rates of infections or vaccine response challenges. Additionally, reproductive complications, including adverse pregnancy outcomes, have been flagged in some PFAS studies. Because children’s bodies are still developing, exposure during pregnancy or early childhood raises heightened concern. Ongoing studies aim to clarify safe thresholds and potential long-term impacts for younger populations.

How is Delaware responding to PFAS contamination?

Delaware’s PFAS response involves collaboration at multiple levels. From DNREC directives and federal EPA guidelines to local advocacy movements, the goal is consistent: identify contamination sources, remediate polluted sites, and protect impacted communities. I have seen the state’s approach evolve rapidly, especially after the EPA’s April 2024 designation of certain PFAS as hazardous substances.

DNREC monitoring and cleanup efforts

DNREC has played a central role in the response effort. Since 2018, the agency has expanded a PFAS monitoring plan that includes groundwater, surface water, and, more recently, soil sampling. DNREC’s Hazardous Substance Cleanup Act framework allows for identifying responsible parties and mandating cleanup actions. For instance, carbon filtration systems were installed in high-exposure areas, like Blades and New Castle, to reduce PFAS levels in public water supplies. Private wells near Dover Air Force Base were also evaluated, with DNREC and federal partners identifying treatment needs or alternative water sources.

EPA oversight and support

At the federal level, the EPA’s decision to list PFOA and PFOS as hazardous substances under CERCLA provides legal backing for thorough site investigations. If polluting entities can be identified, the EPA may require them to fund or perform cleanups. This nationwide PFAS strategy also comes with new regulations, such as the requirement for community water systems to reduce PFOA and PFOS to 4 ppt or below. By 2029, Delaware water providers must fully comply with these EPA standards and provide clear public notifications of any violations.

Legislation and local advocacy

On the legislative side, Delaware enacted a state policy in 2021 calling for maximum contaminant levels of 21 ppt for PFOA, 14 ppt for PFOS, and a combined 17 ppt for both. Although these limits differ from the EPA’s 4 ppt rule, the state has continued updating its regulations to match federal thresholds. Community groups, such as PFAS Solutions in Delaware, serve as watchdog organizations, tracking contamination data. “Identifying and remediating the sources in priority watersheds is key to preventing further contamination,” said Seetha Coleman-Kammula, president of PFAS Solutions in Delaware.

Local advocates also educate residents on PFAS risks, organizing water testing events and pushing for transparency in contamination data. This multilayered approach—government oversight, legal enforcement, and grassroots activism—helps ensure that Delaware’s environment and public health receive the attention they need.

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

Yes, you can. If you draw from a private well, I recommend starting with a state-certified laboratory that specializes in PFAS analysis. DNREC and the Delaware Division of Public Health maintain lists of recommended labs for well owners. Tests detect PFAS levels in parts per trillion, so reliable detection requires specialized methods such as EPA Method 533 or 537.1.

For soil testing, consult environmental consultants familiar with DNREC protocols. If your property is near known PFAS hotspots—like industrial sites, landfills, or former firefighting training facilities—obtaining test results can guide you on whether remediation or an alternate water supply is necessary. DNREC occasionally offers sampling assistance for residents near high-priority zones.

Do you qualify for a PFAS lawsuit in Delaware?

Many individuals I speak with wonder whether legal action is viable if they suspect that PFAS exposure harmed their health or reduced their property value. In some instances, people who have developed certain cancers or severe conditions can explore compensation claims against companies responsible for PFAS releases. Others whose property has lost value because of groundwater contamination may also seek legal recourse.

Lawsuits typically focus on whether a polluter negligently released PFAS into the local environment, causing measurable health or financial damages. Class-action or multidistrict litigation can consolidate these claims, potentially strengthening your case. If you suspect you might qualify, it is vital to gather any test results, medical diagnoses, or property assessments that demonstrate PFAS-related harm.

Why choose Legal Claim Assistant

I have found that navigating a PFAS lawsuit can be complex. Regulations are evolving, and identifying liable entities requires specialized knowledge of environmental law and chemical testing. Legal Claim Assistant helps residents and property owners by connecting them with experienced attorneys who can evaluate their situation. The evaluation is typically free, and you get guidance on:

• Gathering water or soil contamination evidence
• Securing medical records tied to PFAS-related illnesses
• Determining which companies or agencies may be responsible
• Reviewing the potential financial value of your claim

If you want to learn more about how a PFAS lawsuit works, you can visit the main PFAS Lawsuit page or see details about a possible water contamination lawsuit and relevant industry defendants at the DuPont lawsuit page.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Below are the most frequently asked questions I receive about PFAS in Delaware. These answers reflect the latest data from DNREC, the EPA, and other authorities.