PFAS in Vermont

PFAS in Vermont’s drinking water

I have seen growing concern about PFAS in Vermont’s public water systems. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), thousands of drinking water systems across the United States could exceed recommended PFAS levels. In April 2024, the EPA finalized updated guidelines, known as Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCLs), that specifically limit the concentration of several common PFAS in public water supplies.

Vermont has regulated PFAS in drinking water since 2019, setting its own limits before the newest federal standards took shape. Now, the state is reviewing how to align its existing protocols with the EPA’s final rule. The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation is currently analyzing technical reports supporting the EPA’s decision, determining how best to incorporate these findings at the local level. Public water operators are expected to update treatment systems as needed. Homeowners with private wells must rely on their own testing to understand what might be in their water, which can sometimes be costly. However, many common filtration systems used to treat other contaminants in Vermont—such as activated carbon or reverse osmosis—are also effective at reducing PFAS levels.

For those who want to learn how other states address PFAS concerns, resources offer broader perspectives on water contamination.

PFAS in Vermont’s soil and agriculture

PFAS can enter soil through industrial runoffs, landfill leachate, or the application of biosolids in agriculture. These chemicals latch onto soil particles and persist for long intervals. Farmers who rely on groundwater or surface water for irrigation might unknowingly spread PFAS across their fields. In that scenario, produce and livestock can accumulate PFAS, which may pass to consumers.

While definitive studies on PFAS uptake in farmlands are ongoing, Vermont’s Agency of Natural Resources has published informational guides about soil sampling and contamination thresholds. The agency encourages testing where there is strong evidence of industrial pollution or a known PFAS release. Although some PFAS may not easily migrate deep into the soil, top layers can still become contaminated. Over time, repeated exposure saturates the land, making it harder to remove or neutralize these chemicals.

PFAS may also impact compost and manure if these waste products contain residues from contaminated water or industrial sources. The 2023 PFAS Roadmap in Vermont recommends continued monitoring of agricultural areas, alongside the development of strategies to mitigate potential harm to crops and livestock.

Health effects of PFAS exposure

I have read numerous scientific reports indicating that PFAS can affect the body in multiple ways. Most of these findings come from long-term studies of exposed populations. Although PFAS toxicity can differ depending on the specific compound, some common themes have emerged:

• Elevated cholesterol levels

• Immune system disruptions

• Liver function changes

• Thyroid disorders

• Adverse reproductive outcomes

Because PFAS accumulate in the body over time, even modest, repeated exposures may have serious health consequences. The research I reviewed highlights that communities with heavily contaminated water can face higher odds of cancer, kidney disease, and other health complications. Some individuals, including pregnant people, older adults, and young children, may be more vulnerable to harm. Concerned residents are advised to consult a healthcare provider if they suspect elevated exposure, especially if they rely on private wells near known PFAS sites.

PFAS-linked diseases in Vermont

As evidence grows about the link between PFAS and certain diseases, I have focused on conditions that Vermont health authorities and federal agencies are watching most closely. The chemicals’ persistence in the human body can bring about latent effects that do not appear until years after exposure. I spoke with local experts who emphasize that proper testing and ongoing health monitoring are vital if there is a known or suspected route of exposure.

Kidney cancer

Kidney cancer is among the most frequently cited illnesses connected to prolonged PFAS exposure. According to a CDC update in January 2024, PFOA in particular has been linked to renal cell carcinoma. Vermont’s Department of Health acknowledges these findings, advising individuals with significant PFAS exposure to remain vigilant about kidney-related symptoms and to discuss screening protocols with their doctors. Elevated rates of kidney cancer have been noted in some Vermont communities where PFAS contamination levels were high. The disease often appears in older adults, but PFAS exposure can affect people of any age, especially if their water source has been compromised for an extended period.

Testicular cancer

Alongside kidney cancer, testicular cancer has been highlighted as a possible PFAS-related outcome. The bloodstream transports these chemicals through the body, where they can settle in organs like the testes. Although scientists note that more large-scale epidemiological studies are needed, any correlation between PFAS and testicular cancer warrants caution. Men in communities with known contamination might benefit from early screenings if recommended by their healthcare providers. In some cases, local advocacy groups have successfully pushed for free or reduced-cost health tests, especially where water contamination has been clearly documented.

Thyroid disease

The thyroid is sensitive to changes from hormonal imbalances, and PFAS have been implicated in thyroid dysfunction. In several studies, individuals exposed to PFAS at elevated levels displayed a higher incidence of thyroid disorders, ranging from hypothyroidism to hyperthyroidism. Authorities in Vermont stress that people with a personal or family history of thyroid disease should be especially mindful of potential PFAS exposure, given the long-term implications for overall metabolic health. Regular thyroid-function tests can help detect abnormalities early.

Liver damage and cholesterol changes

PFAS appear to influence how the liver processes fats and other chemicals. Consequently, those exposed may be at higher risk for nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and abnormal cholesterol levels. The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation’s informational materials highlight cholesterol changes as one of the well-documented effects of PFAS, often detected among workers in industrial plants dealing with these chemicals. If you notice changes in cholesterol or liver enzymes, healthcare providers may recommend additional screenings or lifestyle modifications to curb potential health risks.

How Vermont is responding to the PFAS crisis

Vermont has been proactive in addressing PFAS, beginning with the discovery of widespread contamination in Bennington in 2016. Since then, public agencies, lawmakers, and community groups have collaborated to reduce or eliminate PFAS use in products, identify contaminated sites, and protect residents. I have observed that state health officials remain in close contact with the federal government to ensure Vermont’s policies reflect emerging scientific knowledge.

Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) actions

The DEC spearheads Vermont’s PFAS response. Early on, the department formed special teams to investigate suspected contamination sources. They also developed extensive monitoring plans for drinking water systems and industrial sites. In 2023, the DEC released a PFAS Roadmap detailing its priorities: improving transparency, bolstering research, and expanding coordination with stakeholders.

One of the DEC’s strategies has been to educate communities about PFAS risks. The department organizes informational sessions, supports public water operators with compliance, and publishes data on contamination levels. Additionally, the DEC is working with manufacturers to limit or phase out PFAS in everyday items, including food packaging and household textiles. Advocates see these measures as critical in preventing new contamination from happening in the first place.

Drinking water standards and legal limits

Vermont set some of the strictest PFAS standards nationwide in 2019. These regulatory levels limit the concentration of specific PFAS in municipal water supplies. Once the EPA finalized its new MCLs in April 2024, the DEC began studying how federal guidelines compare with what Vermont already enforces. Experts anticipate that the state, which historically has been stringent on contamination, will align closely with or possibly refine its current limits to comply with the updated federal rule.

Legal mandates exist not only for municipal systems but also for certain commercial operations, like car washes and industrial processes, to prevent PFAS discharges. The state’s law also restricts PFAS in certain consumer goods and firefighting foams. By managing multiple sources simultaneously, Vermont aims to reduce overall contamination in both groundwater and surface water.

Cleanup and site investigation programs

Contaminated sites in Vermont undergo thorough evaluations to measure PFAS levels in soil, groundwater, and surface water. The goal is to define the scope of pollution, identify responsible parties, and outline a strategy for remediation. The DEC’s process often involves initial sampling, risk assessments, and stakeholder engagement. Some sites may need excavation or specialized filtration systems to reduce PFAS concentration. Others might require long-term monitoring if immediate cleanup proves impractical.

Funding can come from multiple channels, including state allocations, federal grants, or legal settlements with industries linked to PFAS releases. Vermont has established clear guidelines for property owners and developers on how to investigate and remediate PFAS. In many cases, local communities get updates on progress, reflecting the state’s emphasis on transparency and public trust. Although remediation can take years, officials say the goal is lasting protection for people who live, work, or farm in affected areas.

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

Yes. If you rely on a private well or suspect contamination on your property, you can arrange specialized tests to measure PFAS levels. While this testing is more expensive than standard water analyses, it provides clarity about whether your home or farm faces potential health risks. The Vermont Department of Health encourages private well owners to test routinely for contaminants, particularly if you live near industrial facilities, airports, or landfills where PFAS might have been released.

Laboratories certified by the state can guide you on sample collection and handling. Water samples generally require special containers to avoid cross-contamination, and soil testing must follow strict protocols. If tests show high PFAS concentrations, you could install treatment systems such as granular activated carbon filters or reverse osmosis units. These filtration methods often address multiple contaminants, which can be beneficial to many Vermont households using well water.

Do you qualify for a PFAS lawsuit in Vermont?

If you have faced PFAS exposure in Vermont and suffered health consequences—such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid disease, or other confirmed illnesses—there may be grounds for legal action. Lawsuits typically hinge on demonstrating that a company or organization allowed PFAS to contaminate drinking water, soil, or the environment. Individuals in communities with known contamination sites, especially if they have documented exposure over a long period, should consider consulting with legal professionals.

For more information on the broader context of PFAS litigation, you can review the resources at:

• PFAS Water Contamination Lawsuit

• DuPont Lawsuit

These pages explain how major chemical manufacturers and other responsible parties have been taken to court for PFAS releases. Vermont residents who suspect their health was compromised could potentially join existing lawsuits or file new claims. Many law firms offer free consultations, making it easier for you to understand eligibility without incurring immediate legal fees.

Why choose Legal Claim Assistant

I understand it can be daunting to start a lawsuit, especially when facing complex contamination issues. This is where the PFAS lawsuit from Legal Claim Assistant comes in. Their platform connects you with attorneys experienced in PFAS litigation, ensuring you receive guidance on how to proceed with your claim.

Legal Claim Assistant can help you:

• Identify the source of PFAS exposure in your area

• Gather medical records and testing data to bolster your case

• Understand relevant state and federal regulations

• Navigate the legal steps required to file a lawsuit

Their assistance can be especially beneficial if you are managing health complications and cannot undergo a lengthy, independent search for a qualified legal team. If you suspect PFAS exposure has harmed you or your loved ones, the first step is to reach out for a free case review.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

I’ve assembled these common questions to address how PFAS, and especially PFAS in Vermont, may affect you personally. If you still have concerns about your unique situation, consult with state health officials or speak directly to a legal professional.