PFAS in Iowa

PFAS in Iowa’s drinking water

Drinking water supplies are a primary concern for officials and residents alike. PFAS can seep into groundwater and municipal water systems, often through industrial runoff or the application of PFAS-laden firefighting foams. I first learned about the scale of this issue when I read reports on water-quality monitoring data shared by the Iowa DNR.

Testing programs across Iowa aim to measure PFAS concentrations at public water suppliers. Early results showed around 20% detection in samples, highlighting that drinking water contamination is not isolated to major cities. Rural communities reliant on well water may also face these risks, especially if they live near a potential PFAS source.

Affected counties and cities in Iowa

Although the Iowa DNR recognizes that multiple counties and cities may have known or suspected contamination, certain areas have received special attention. Des Moines and Sioux City, for example, had documented cases tied to military installations. Other mid-sized communities, particularly those with industries that have historically used PFAS, are under investigation.

While statewide testing continues, counties with industrial or military footprints remain a central focus. Each municipality’s size, water-treatment infrastructure, and population density can influence how PFAS spread. Public updates are typically posted by local authorities to guide residents on next steps, such as using home filtration systems or consulting health professionals.

Sources of contamination: Firefighting foam, industry, military

Firefighting foam has been identified as one of the biggest contributors to PFAS contamination. Military bases, airports, and fire-training facilities often used these foams for emergencies and training exercises. Over years of repeated use, PFAS from the foam can migrate into soil and local water sources.

Industrial sites also play a role. PFAS are used in processes that require chemical and heat resistance, such as plating, textile manufacturing, and semiconductor production. Discharges from these facilities may enter sewage systems or surface waters. Military operations and manufacturing plants share a common thread: repeated PFAS usage and storage that often predates current regulations.

EPA and Iowa DNR test results

As of this writing, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has initiated the Fifth Unregulated Contaminant Monitoring Rule (UCMR 5), requiring public water systems across the country to test for PFAS between 2023 and 2025. In Iowa, results are regularly shared with the Iowa DNR, which publishes updates on contamination levels found at public facilities. These data points contribute to a clearer statewide picture of PFAS prevalence.

Some tests have shown PFAS concentrations exceeding the EPA’s interim health advisories for PFOA and PFOS, both of which have a proposed limit of 4 parts per trillion in drinking water. When an exceedance is noted, water suppliers must promptly inform the public and develop a plan to mitigate contamination, often through carbon filtration, reverse osmosis, or other advanced treatment technologies.

PFAS in Iowa’s soil and agriculture

PFAS do not only pose a risk to water sources. Because these chemicals persist in the environment, they can accumulate in soil as well. For agricultural states like Iowa, soil quality is essential to crop production, livestock grazing, and community well-being. I have encountered farmers concerned about whether PFAS might migrate from water runoff into their fields.

Experts note that PFAS in soil can be a result of biosolids, industrial spills, or the application of PFAS-contaminated irrigation water. Iowa’s agricultural sector is keeping a close watch on this emerging issue, since potential contamination could threaten the state’s large-scale production of corn, soybeans, and livestock products.

PFAS in farmland and biosolids

Biosolids, commonly used as fertilizer, can unknowingly introduce PFAS into farmland if they are sourced from wastewater treatment plants receiving PFAS-rich industrial effluent. While these solids can provide nutrients that are beneficial to crops, they may also bring PFAS directly into the soil.

Some regions are adopting more rigorous testing protocols for biosolids, but systematic oversight is still evolving. Farmers in Iowa have begun to request PFAS testing before applying sewage sludge or related materials to their fields. This precautionary measure aims to prevent long-term issues such as reduced crop quality or health risks for people who consume those crops.

Potential for crop and livestock contamination

The major concern for agriculture is the possibility of PFAS transferring from contaminated soil into crops and, subsequently, the food supply. Research has shown that certain PFAS may be taken up by plants, though the degree varies by species and soil conditions. Livestock that consume feed grown on contaminated soil or drink affected water could also carry PFAS in their tissues.

According to ongoing studies, children may be more vulnerable to the harmful effects of these chemicals. This is especially pertinent in farming communities where families often rely on well water and locally sourced produce. Public health officials emphasize that thorough testing and transparent communication can help mitigate these risks and protect Iowa’s agricultural heritage.

Health effects of PFAS exposure

In the last few years, I have followed numerous studies that explore how PFAS may influence human health. Researchers have identified potential links to developmental issues, immune-system suppression, and multiple types of cancer. The CDC and the National Toxicology Program have flagged PFOA and PFOS specifically for their potential to suppress antibody response in humans.

Although new variants of PFAS often replace older ones, some experts worry the health risks may persist. As a class, PFAS chemicals exhibit similar stability and bioaccumulation properties. With thousands of PFAS formulations in circulation, conclusive understanding of each compound’s toxic effects remains limited. Nevertheless, many scientists advise residents in high-exposure areas to take precautionary steps, such as installing water filters or seeking medical opinions.

Diseases linked to PFAS exposure in Iowa

Evidence suggests that long-term exposure to certain PFAS can lead to increased disease risk. In Iowa communities, many factors determine how serious the threat may be, including concentration levels, exposure pathways, and the overall health of individuals. I often encourage friends and neighbors in impacted areas to stay informed by monitoring EPA and Iowa DNR announcements.

Below are some diseases commonly associated with PFAS exposure. While the research is ongoing, these conditions often appear in scientific literature as potential outcomes of chronic PFAS intake.

Kidney cancer

Studies have suggested an elevated risk of kidney cancer in individuals who experience prolonged exposure to PFAS. Researchers believe PFAS can cause stress on the kidneys over time, particularly when high concentrations enter the bloodstream through contaminated water or food. Regular screenings and timely interventions can help identify potential kidney issues early.

Testicular cancer

Like kidney cancer, testicular cancer has shown a possible link to persistent PFAS exposure. Military personnel and industrial workers, both of whom might handle PFAS-containing products more frequently, have demonstrated higher incidence rates in some studies. Understanding potential pathways of exposure is key to limiting health risks, which makes routine testing for PFAS important in affected regions.

Liver damage

The liver’s role in filtering toxins from the bloodstream makes it a frequent topic of investigation in PFAS research. Certain studies have connected PFAS exposure to elevated liver enzymes, a sign that the liver may be under stress. While further studies are needed, the possibility of liver toxicity highlights why regular health monitoring can be beneficial in areas with confirmed contamination.

Thyroid disorders

PFAS may interfere with hormone regulation, and the thyroid gland is especially sensitive to chemical imbalances. Signs of thyroid dysfunction can include weight fluctuation, fatigue, and temperature sensitivity. Although more research is vital, it is advisable for those living in impacted areas to see a healthcare provider if they suspect thyroid-related symptoms.

Immune system and developmental issues

Children and pregnant individuals appear to be particularly at risk from PFAS exposure. According to the National Toxicology Program, PFAS can undermine the immune response, potentially affecting vaccine efficacy and overall disease resistance. Prenatal exposure may also lead to developmental complications, emphasizing the significance of controlling PFAS levels in household water and food supplies.

How is Iowa responding to PFAS contamination?

Local and state agencies, along with federal partners, have taken steps to investigate, monitor, and regulate PFAS in Iowa. As I have watched these developments unfold, I have noticed more robust testing procedures and calls for transparent data sharing. While these measures do not eliminate PFAS overnight, they represent an evolving plan to tackle the issue at multiple levels.

Iowa Department of Natural Resources (DNR) initiatives

The Iowa DNR launched an action plan in January 2020 to identify and address PFAS contamination in public water supplies. This plan called for sampling at 130 public water systems, resulting in about 20% detection rates for PFAS. Facilities testing higher than the health advisory levels were required to alert the public and improve their water-treatment methods.

On top of water sampling, the Iowa DNR encourages further research on PFAS in soil and livestock feed. Public outreach and transparency are central components of the agency’s strategy, with data made available through an interactive dashboard. For more details or comments, individuals can email PFAS@dnr.iowa.gov.

EPA involvement in Iowa communities

The EPA has proposed new limits for PFAS in public water systems, including a plan to potentially enforce a maximum contaminant level (MCL). These developments align with a broader government-wide push to reduce PFAS contaminants, which involves multiple agencies like the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS). As part of UCMR 5, Iowa’s public water systems will test for PFAS under EPA guidelines. Results will filter back to both the EPA and the Iowa DNR, guiding enforcement and mitigation actions.

State and federal legislation

Iowa has joined other states in exploring legislation to curb industrial discharges of PFAS. This includes mandatory reporting for facilities that knowingly use or manufacture PFAS. The goal is to capture data on the full extent of PFAS usage, thereby preventing unexpected contamination sources. At the federal level, the bipartisan infrastructure law passed in 2021 allocated at least 12 million USD to Iowa specifically to address emerging contaminants like PFAS.

Nearby states, such as Wisconsin and South Dakota, have also developed or proposed rules for PFAS in drinking water and industrial effluents. Cross-border coordination can be crucial when watersheds span multiple states, creating a collective effort to ensure safe drinking water for the region.

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

Residents concerned about their water quality have a few testing options. First, several municipal water utilities are offering free or low-cost PFAS tests. If that is not available, I have found that private environmental laboratories commonly provide testing services with fees ranging from 100 USD to several hundred dollars. This analysis measures PFAS levels in parts per trillion (ppt) to determine if contamination exceeds advisory limits.

Soil testing is somewhat more specialized and often performed by professional consultants or academic researchers. Farmers can request testing through local extension offices or the Iowa DNR. If you rely on a private well, the Grants to Counties Program may subsidize testing costs for low-income households. Early detection can inform next steps, such as installing a home filtration system or choosing alternative water sources.

Do you qualify for a PFAS lawsuit in Iowa?

Many individuals who have experienced adverse health outcomes from PFAS exposure wonder if they can pursue legal action. In fact, class-action suits and individual litigation have emerged in multiple states. If you think your water source or property has been contaminated, consulting an attorney may clarify your legal options.

I often recommend reading about PFAS lawsuits and water contamination lawsuits before moving forward. Doing some initial research at this PFAS Lawsuit resource can help you determine whether you might have a viable claim. You can also explore the possibility of a Water Contamination Lawsuit or measures involving manufacturers, such as the DuPont Lawsuit.

Why choose Legal Claim Assistant

Legal Claim Assistant offers to connect you with attorneys who specifically handle PFAS-related claims. If you believe you have a valid lawsuit, I encourage you to seek a free case review to assess your situation. By partnering with knowledgeable legal professionals, you can gain clarity on next steps, whether that involves filing a claim or joining an ongoing class-action lawsuit.

I appreciate that Legal Claim Assistant focuses on streamlining the legal process for victims of environmental contamination. Attorneys in its network are familiar with PFAS issues, allowing them to quickly evaluate your evidence and discuss possible resolutions. Speed is often essential when dealing with health-related legal matters, so reaching out sooner can help preserve important documentation, such as medical records and water-test results.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Below are some commonly raised questions about PFAS contamination in Iowa. I gathered these from local forums, community meetings, and official reports. The goal is to provide immediate context, but you should always consult public health agencies or legal experts for personalized advice.