PFAS in Nevada

PFAS in Nevada’s drinking water

PFAS in drinking water remains a major concern because even low exposure over time, experts say, can affect long-term health. Until August 2023, most of Nevada’s major municipal water systems did not register PFAS in routine tests, according to statewide sampling data. However, persistent findings in rivers, lakes, and associated sediment raise key questions about how quickly PFAS might migrate into some drinking water sources.

Affected communities and municipal water systems

Given Nevada’s broad geography, certain localities have experienced more scrutiny than others. Las Vegas, one of the country’s fastest-growing metropolitan areas, draws heavily from Lake Mead, the Colorado River, and groundwater. Meanwhile, communities in Reno rely on the Truckee River, which flows from Lake Tahoe and feeds local reservoirs.

• In Las Vegas, early surveillance showed PFAS in the Las Vegas Wash and Lake Mead, but not in city-distributed drinking water.

• In Reno, the limited data from 2023 suggested PFAS-free results in a small set of water system samples, while surface water in the region occasionally tested positive.

PFAS sampling data and risk levels

The EPA finalized a National Primary Drinking Water Regulation (NPDWR) for six PFAS chemicals in April 2024, setting Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs) at 70 parts per trillion (ppt). Water systems across the country, including in Nevada, will have to ensure that PFAS levels meet or stay below this standard.

Nationwide testing indicated that PFAS showed up in around 45% of U.S. drinking water samples, but Nevada’s official tests through most of 2023 reported no PFAS detection in major public systems. Experts at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) confirmed low detection rates in public wells statewide, while noting that ongoing monitoring is essential.

Historic contamination from firefighting foam and industry

Historically, firefighting foam has been a major source of PFAS release. Nevada has prohibited the use or release of Class B firefighting foams containing PFAS for testing or training since January 1, 2022. Nonetheless, past use at industrial sites, airports, and military installations could leave lasting contamination in soil and groundwater. Over time, PFAS can enter the food chain if it seeps into irrigation sources.

Industrial processes, including semiconductor manufacturing and metal plating, are also potential contributors. Although large-scale industrial activity is limited compared to other states, it still poses a risk in localized areas of Nevada. Researchers keep a close watch on historical industrial zones to determine whether soil or groundwater is impacted.

PFAS in Nevada’s soil and agriculture

PFAS can leach into soil, especially if wastewater or firefighting foam residue is present. During heavy rains, runoff can carry these chemicals over larger areas. Some farmland near urban boundaries may be vulnerable if past industrial or firefighting activities occurred upstream.

In general, PFAS can remain in soil for years, making it difficult to remove once established. Plants intended for human or livestock consumption could absorb PFAS from irrigation water, adding another layer of risk. The full extent of PFAS infiltration in Nevada’s agricultural soils is still under study, but awareness is growing, and some farmers are working with state officials to evaluate potential impacts on crops and livestock feed.

Health effects of PFAS exposure

Over the past decade, scientific consensus has grown around PFAS-related health issues. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) and the EPA point out these possible concerns:

• Elevated cholesterol and other metabolic disturbances

• Reduced vaccine response in children

• Thyroid dysfunction

• Liver damage

• Reproductive and developmental problems, including lower birth weight

Evidence suggests that health effects may vary with the type of PFAS, the level of exposure, and individual factors. Some individuals who experience high exposure—for example, due to contaminated drinking water over many years—may face an increased risk of certain cancers.

Diseases linked to PFAS exposure in Nevada

When I looked into how PFAS exposure manifests in health outcomes, I discovered frequently cited risks: kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and other organ-specific harm. Although no single chemical exposure guarantees disease, repeated contact with PFAS is viewed as a higher-risk scenario.

Kidney cancer

Kidney cancer is often associated with PFAS exposure, as certain compounds can accumulate in the kidneys. The link is still under investigation by state and federal researchers, but initial studies have flagged kidney cancer risk for individuals in high-exposure communities.

Testicular cancer

Testicular cancer has also been cited as a potential risk. While the direct link between PFAS and testicular cancer is sometimes debated, data from heavily contaminated regions demonstrate an elevated incidence of this form of cancer among long-term residents.

Liver damage

PFAS can stress the liver, potentially leading to conditions such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Scientific reviews highlight that chronic exposure has the potential to alter liver enzymes.

Thyroid disorders

Thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, may arise from PFAS interfering with hormone regulation. Some individuals report persistent symptoms, especially in communities with known PFAS contamination.

Reproductive and developmental issues

PFAS can disrupt hormones essential for fetal growth, puberty, and fertility. Pregnant individuals exposed to PFAS may see adverse birth outcomes, such as low neonatal weight. Early-life exposure can affect immune function and growth, underscoring the importance of ongoing public-health monitoring.

How is Nevada responding to the PFAS crisis?

I found that Nevada’s response to PFAS involves collaboration between state agencies, federal authorities, and local governments. The Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) oversees testing, remediation, and public outreach efforts, while federal agencies like the EPA have stepped in to set new regulatory benchmarks. Local governments also play a pivotal role in informing residents about contamination risks and safe-water practices.

Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) initiatives

NDEP actively coordinates sampling programs in both municipal and private wells, focusing on communities that may be at higher risk for PFAS infiltration. Officials said they are partnering with contractors to investigate sites such as Swan Lake, where PFAS was detected in surface water. Although Swan Lake is not a drinking source, the presence of PFAS prompted caution around recreational use.

NDEP also enforces the January 2022 restriction on PFAS-containing firefighting foam, preventing additional releases. Meanwhile, the agency monitors emerging technologies for PFAS removal, including activated carbon absorption, ion exchange, and high-pressure membranes.

EPA involvement and national PFAS action plan

Federal support emerged strongly in 2024 when the EPA finalized its NPDWR for six PFAS chemicals. The EPA designated certain PFAS as “hazardous substances,” enabling quicker cleanups under federal Superfund regulations. Public water systems must adhere to MCLs for these chemicals, ensuring that drinking water remains below established safety thresholds.

The EPA’s PFAS Action Plan also supports state-level funding for treatment upgrades. Nevada benefits from grants such as the State Revolving Fund and Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Assistance, which direct resources to address PFAS contamination in small and disadvantaged communities.

Local government responses and community testing

Local utilities in places like Reno and Las Vegas engage in ongoing testing, often more frequently than federally required. County officials in Washoe County and Clark County have public outreach campaigns advising residents on how to stay informed about water quality reports.

Some rural municipalities are less resourced, so they rely on NDEP grants or partnerships with private labs. I have seen interest in specialized test kits, like those developed by Cyclopure, which can detect PFAS in home tap water and environmental samples. As local authorities gather more data, they can refine treatment strategies to reduce PFAS levels.

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

Yes, you can, and it is becoming more straightforward. I have noted two primary routes for PFAS testing:

1. Commercial testing services: Several independent laboratories serve Nevada and can test well water or soil samples for a fee. Turnaround times vary, but results detail PFAS types and concentrations in parts per trillion.

2. State or municipal programs: NDEP occasionally offers community testing drives, especially in areas suspected of contamination. If you rely on a private well, you can inquire with local health departments about available PFAS testing programs.

Home kits also exist for preliminary screening purposes. For instance, Cyclopure’s test kits, approved by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection, are used across multiple states and gather water samples that you ship to a lab for PFAS analysis.

Do you qualify for a PFAS lawsuit in Nevada?

Qualifying for a PFAS lawsuit often depends on exposure level, specific health conditions, and the potential negligence of manufacturers or polluters. If you suspect moderate or high PFAS exposure—especially through water or other environmental pathways—and have received a medical diagnosis linked to PFAS, you may be eligible to pursue compensation.

Factors supporting a Nevada PFAS claim include:

• Verified contamination of residential or community water

• Documented health impacts consistent with PFAS exposure

• Evidence that a known source (industrial site, military base, firefighting foam usage) contributed to the contamination

For detailed information about filing a claim, I consult resources provided by Legal Claim Assistant’s PFAS Lawsuit page to understand what documentation or medical records might be required. There is also guidance on water contamination claims at this dedicated page, and individuals affected by PFAS manufacturing or industrial discharge sometimes reference the DuPont lawsuit section.

Why choose Legal Claim Assistant

I recognize that navigating PFAS litigation can be complex, especially for families facing health issues or property devaluation. Legal Claim Assistant connects individuals to lawyers who specialize in environmental contamination claims. Their approach focuses on:

• Free case reviews to determine eligibility

• Collaboration with medical experts to link disease diagnoses to PFAS exposure

• Knowledge of legal precedents involving PFAS manufacturers and government entities

By centralizing resources, Legal Claim Assistant expedites the process for individuals seeking compensation. They also provide updates on ongoing PFAS lawsuits nationwide, including major settlements or legislative developments.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Below, I answer common questions about PFAS Nevada concerns and the broader legal context.