PFAS in South Dakota

PFAS in South Dakota’s drinking water

Many people contact me to ask if their drinking water is safe. Nationwide studies indicate that PFAS can turn up in nearly half of households’ drinking water supplies (EPA). Although direct ingestion accounts for about 20% of a typical person’s total PFAS exposure, any tap-water contamination is still a major concern.

South Dakota’s Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources, as well as local water utilities, are actively examining public water systems for PFAS traces. Current federal and state guidelines seek to lower the maximum contaminant levels (MCLs), meaning allowable concentrations in drinking water. Below is what I have uncovered about where PFAS shows up and how water agencies are responding.

Confirmed contamination sites

Confirmed sites of PFAS contamination in South Dakota include:

• Mount Rushmore National Memorial: Detected perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS).

• Rapid Valley Sanitary District: Smaller-scale detections in regular water sample tests.

• Aberdeen and Harrisburg: Trace amounts observed in municipal water supplies.

• Lincoln County Rural Water System: Preliminary testing indicates occasional PFAS detection.

• The Mni Wiconi water system: Data suggests low but notable PFAS presence.

Existing results show that levels vary considerably from one location to another. High-risk sites, such as areas near firefighting foam usage or industrial runoff, generally yield stronger detections. At the moment, the state has not declared any broad “do not drink” advisories, but continued sampling will clarify if additional measures are needed.

Common PFAS sources: Firefighting foam, industrial waste, landfill runoff

PFAS contamination often begins with firefighting foam used to combat petroleum-based fires. Such foam can seep into groundwater or surface waterways over time. Industrial facilities producing or using PFAS also generate waste that, if not managed carefully, can enter the environment. Municipal landfills are another concern because PFAS in household products or packaging can leach from trash piles into soil and water.

When you look at a typical household, you can also find PFAS in carpeting, stain-resistant furniture coatings, and certain food wrappers. While the EPA estimates that drinking water makes up about 20% of overall exposure, consumer products comprise the remaining 80%. Cutting down PFAS in your lifestyle often involves checking labels or switching to safer alternatives.

EPA and South Dakota DENR testing data

The Environmental Protection Agency finalized a National Primary Drinking Water Standard for six PFAS chemicals in April 2024. Public water supplies nationwide, including in South Dakota, are required to meet certain sampling and treatment requirements if levels surpass these standards.

As part of establishing a statewide baseline, the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources is testing 30 sites across various rivers. Testing is scheduled to continue through the fall. Preliminary results indicate that PFAS tends to concentrate downstream of population centers like Sioux Falls and Watertown. These sites were selected based on the size of nearby communities and the importance of the water source. The data is set to be published on the agency’s website after final analysis.

PFAS in South Dakota’s soil and agriculture

PFAS can affect more than just drinking water. When PFAS infiltrate soil, they can accumulate over time, making farmland and even suburban lawns potential trouble spots. In particular, farmland that has received industrial sludge or wastewater biosolids may carry elevated PFAS levels. Some farmers, livestock owners, or gardeners have voiced concerns about how these chemicals might affect their crops and eventually their families.

PFAS in farmland and sludge applications

Sludge, also known as biosolids, is sometimes applied to farmland as fertilizer. While this can be beneficial in returning nutrients to the soil, PFAS residues can be present in these biosolids. Over months of repeated application, PFAS can leach deeper into the soil or get absorbed by plants. Cattle grazing on contaminated pastures, for example, could accumulate PFAS in their milk or meat.

Because PFAS are long-lasting, they pose a cumulative challenge. The European Environment Agency (EEA) has stressed that a full life-cycle perspective is essential, meaning policies should consider PFAS from their production and use to their eventual disposal (EU human biomonitoring study). Although the EEA data largely pertains to Europe, it illustrates what can happen when these chemicals persist in the environment.

Risks to crops, livestock, and food supply

Researchers have found that certain PFAS can build up in leafy greens and root vegetables, while livestock can ingest the chemicals through feed, grass, or contaminated water. Once these chemicals enter the supply chain, they can eventually wind up in grocery stores and family kitchens. For South Dakotans who grow their own produce or run agricultural businesses, there is ongoing concern about market acceptance and consumer safety.

Until large-scale soil and crop testing data is complete, many crucial questions remain. Some farmers have begun investing in specialized soil testing, while others wait for more concrete guidance from the Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources. In the meantime, agronomists and environmental scientists emphasize the importance of balancing production needs with the possible health implications of PFAS.

Health effects of PFAS exposure

Over the years, multiple agencies, including the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), have investigated the impact of PFAS on the human body. Although health outcomes vary by the type of PFAS and level of exposure, studies have reported a correlation between elevated PFAS levels and:

• Disruption of the immune system.

• Increased cholesterol.

• Potential developmental problems in fetuses and children.

• Liver dysfunction and heightened liver enzyme levels.

• Hormonal imbalances affecting the thyroid.

One of the more concerning links is the potential association between PFAS exposure and several types of cancer, including kidney and testicular cancer (CDC Health Alert, January 26, 2024). That does not automatically mean everyone with PFAS exposure will develop cancer. However, repeated or prolonged contact with these substances can raise health risks.

Children may be particularly vulnerable because their bodies are still developing. Exposure through breast milk or formula prepared with contaminated water can present early-life risks. More research is ongoing to clarify precisely how PFAS levels influence long-term health, and different PFAS chemicals may behave differently in the body.

Diseases linked to PFAS in South Dakota

Chronic exposure to PFAS has been associated with a range of medical conditions. In South Dakota, specific attention has focused on kidney cancer and testicular cancer rates. Other health issues, such as thyroid disorders and immune deficiencies, have also come under scrutiny.

Kidney cancer

According to state health statistics, about 160 new kidney cancer cases are diagnosed in South Dakota each year, with approximately 34 related deaths. The median diagnosis age runs from 65 to 69, and roughly 63% of cases fall between ages 55 to 79. Men appear to have a higher diagnosis and mortality rate than women.

The CDC has issued multiple alerts linking elevated PFAS exposure to an increased risk of developing kidney cancer. These alerts underscore the importance of consistent monitoring for those who believe they have come into contact with higher PFAS levels. If you have concerns about kidney health or a relevant medical history, consulting a healthcare provider can help you stay vigilant.

Testicular cancer

Reports indicate that South Dakota sees around 50 new testicular cancer cases per year, often affecting younger men aged 15 to 44. Some research suggests that PFAS may disrupt hormone regulation, leading to an increased risk of testicular tumors.

Military bases like Ellsworth Air Force Base have been named in public discussion. Sites with heavy firefighting foam usage, especially in training exercises, can contaminate local groundwater with PFAS. If you live nearby or rely on water sources close to a former foam use area, regular testing for PFAS contamination is advisable.

Liver damage

Studies in both animals and humans have revealed a correlation between PFAS exposure and impaired liver function. Elevated liver enzymes can be one of the first signs that the body is under stress. Chronic PFAS accumulation might disrupt critical metabolic processes, though the severity can differ by individual. If you suspect environmental exposure, simple lab tests for liver enzymes can sometimes yield early clues.

Thyroid disorders

Thyroid function is tightly tied to overall metabolic health. An imbalance in thyroid hormone can lead to weight fluctuations, mood changes, or energy-level disruptions. PFAS, particularly PFOS and PFOA, have been studied for their possible role in changing thyroid hormone levels. In South Dakota, individuals who present unexplained thyroid problems sometimes wonder if exposure to PFAS might be a contributing factor.

Birth defects and immune system problems

Because PFAS can interfere with normal cellular processes, scientists continue to investigate whether these chemicals can harm a developing fetus. Furthermore, a compromised immune system can leave individuals more susceptible to infections or chronic inflammation. According to the National Toxicology Program, PFOS and PFOA specifically can suppress the antibody response. This points to the immune system as another area where these chemicals could pose a significant threat.

How is South Dakota responding to PFAS contamination?

South Dakota’s leadership has begun implementing statewide testing programs and engaging local communities. Although PFAS is a national concern, the state is working with federal agencies to craft a more localized response.

Efforts by the DENR and local governments

The state Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources is spearheading testing in different watersheds to detect potential PFAS hotspots. Aside from water supply evaluation, local health departments often coordinate with the public on alerts and regular updates. Municipalities have taken measures like closing contaminated wells, adjusting water source blends, and deploying advanced filtration techniques (granular activated carbon or reverse osmosis).

Meanwhile, local governments in areas like Rapid Valley or Aberdeen are rolling out public information campaigns. These aim to help residents who notice peculiar taste or odor in their water and to guide them through testing and possible remediation steps.

EPA oversight and involvement

The EPA finalized new drinking water standards for six PFAS chemicals in April 2024. According to these rules, water systems statewide have three years to begin monitoring for PFAS and two additional years to implement treatments if levels exceed the MCL. By establishing legally enforceable maximum contaminant levels, the EPA hopes to press local utilities toward improving water safety.

However, the EPA acknowledges that only around 20% of overall PFAS exposure stems from drinking water. To address the remaining 80%, which often includes everyday consumer products, a broader initiative is in the works. Although not a regulatory agency, the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences supports research on how to mitigate harmful exposures from multiple sources.

Community advocacy and legislative action

Community groups have emerged to advocate for stronger pollution controls, cleaner water, and increased transparency. Some residents want more rigorous testing near industrial plants, landfills, or other PFAS sources. Others are pushing for legislation that mandates additional product labeling or bans certain PFAS variants.

On the legislative front, a few state representatives have proposed bills to fund PFAS mitigation projects. Although no binding state-level regulation has yet emerged beyond federal compliance, discussions are ongoing. Public pressure and heightened awareness have spurred local boards and city councils to prioritize PFAS monitoring budgets.

Can you test your water or soil for PFAS in South Dakota?

Yes. If you rely on a private well, you can contact a certified lab that offers PFAS testing. Most labs also provide sampling instructions, which often involve taking a first-draw water sample. Nitpicking the sampling technique is crucial, as cross-contamination can occur if you use Teflon-based tape or a container containing PFAS residues.

For soil tests, you can similarly consult environmental testing agencies that specialize in PFAS. Although the testing can be costly, many argue it is a worthwhile investment when weighing potential health risks. Some local extension offices in South Dakota might also guide you on soil-sampling protocols or direct you to certified labs.

Do you qualify for a PFAS lawsuit in South Dakota?

If you suspect your health issues—such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, or thyroid maladies—stem from elevated PFAS exposure, you might qualify for a lawsuit. Individuals who lived or worked in close proximity to contamination sites, including military installations or industrial zones, may have a stronger claim. Documented health diagnoses linked with PFAS serve as supporting evidence in many legal proceedings.

Lawsuits often focus on negligence, meaning plaintiffs argue that responsible parties either failed to control PFAS emissions or did not adequately warn about health risks. Determining eligibility typically requires:

1. Proof of exposure through contaminated water, air, or soil.

2. A resulting condition, diagnosis, or medical impact linked to PFAS.

3. Availability of a responsible party—such as a manufacturer or polluter—legally liable for damages.

You can learn more about potential legal options in PFAS cases by visiting the official PFAS lawsuit page. It covers case trends across the country and offers resources for individuals who want to initiate a claim.

Why choose Legal Claim Assistant

I have found that PFAS litigation can be complex, often involving multiple defendants and a deep need for scientific data. Legal Claim Assistant focuses on demystifying these processes, organizing your medical and exposure history, and putting you in contact with attorneys experienced in PFAS-related cases.

Their toolkit includes:

• Access to water-contamination case resources, detailed at Water Contamination Lawsuit.

• Information on PFAS settlements and manufacturer liability, such as the DuPont lawsuit reference.

• Guidance on how to document exposure sources, such as well testing records or medical screenings.

By collaborating with a reputable partner who understands PFAS science and emerging regulations, you have a better chance of achieving fair outcomes if you decide to pursue legal action.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Below I address common questions about PFAS in South Dakota. From locating source points in your community to filing a potential lawsuit, this section covers frequently asked topics.