PFAS in Wisconsin

PFAS in Wisconsin’s drinking water

Drinking water contamination is what worries me most. In some communities, private wells have shown PFAS levels above state or federal guidelines. The DNR enforces rules that require action if contamination in water sources exceeds state health or enforcement standards. At the federal level, the EPA finalized new MCLs for six PFAS in April 2024. This places enforceable limits at 4.0 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA and PFOS, as well as 10.0 ppt for PFNA, PFHxS, and GenX. It also sets a hazard index of 1 if two or more PFAS from a specific list appear together in a water sample.

Wisconsin is now moving to align its standards with the updated federal guidelines. The state’s existing 70 ppt standard for the combination of PFOA and PFOS may need revision to reflect new federal policy. Communities with levels above these proposed thresholds face decisions about installing specialized filtration equipment. The costs can be significant, running into tens of millions of dollars for some water utilities. The DNR’s approach has been to require immediate measures to reduce further pollution while cleanup efforts proceed. From what I have gathered, local governments hope that state or federal grants—and potential legal settlements—will help cover the cost of upgraded water treatment systems.

PFAS in Wisconsin’s soil and agriculture

PFAS can also accumulate in soil, which poses challenges for farmers and homeowners. According to the DNR, PFAS contaminants in topsoil can run off into streams or seep into deeper layers, eventually affecting groundwater and crops. Soil advisories typically include guidelines for direct contact and ingestion risk. Although no broad statewide ban on using PFAS in agricultural practices exists, the DNR’s Remediation and Redevelopment Program calculates acceptable levels to protect people from soil exposure.

That is particularly important for Wisconsin farms. If livestock consume contaminated water or forage grown in polluted soil, PFAS may build up in animals. Milk and meat from those operations could then carry trace amounts of PFAS. Regulators, farmers, and researchers are studying whether routine agricultural practices are enough to mitigate the risk. Because PFAS travel easily, farmland near industrial sites or known contamination zones is more likely to show higher concentrations. At the moment, the focus is on preventing additional releases. Cleaning up PFAS in soil is costly and complex, so early identification can help reduce harm.

Health effects of PFAS exposure

I often get questions about how PFAS enter the body. The primary routes are ingestion and, to a lesser extent, skin contact. When PFAS-contaminated water or foods are consumed, these chemicals can persist in the bloodstream for years. Research cited by state and federal agencies points to several possible health effects:

• Immune system challenges: Studies suggest high PFAS levels may reduce the effectiveness of certain vaccines or increase vulnerability to infections.

• Learning and development: In some animal studies, PFAS have impacted fetal development and postnatal growth.

• Liver function and cholesterol: Elevated cholesterol levels and changes in liver enzyme measurements have been noted in individuals with higher PFAS exposures.

• Cancer risks: PFOA and PFOS specifically have been linked to kidney and testicular cancer.

Research is ongoing, and experts underscore that responses can vary between individuals. Studies of PFAS in population samples show most Americans have low but detectable PFAS in their blood. Whether these low levels cause significant health issues remains under study. However, individuals living near known contamination hotspots may face higher risks.

PFAS-linked diseases in Wisconsin

Over the years, I have come across numerous inquiries from Wisconsin residents who suspect their health problems are connected to PFAS exposure. While not every person living near contamination will develop illness, certain diseases have been documented in regions where PFAS levels are higher than regulatory guidelines. Below, I outline four major health conditions that can be associated with PFAS, based on research from the EPA, the Wisconsin DNR, and other public health agencies.

Kidney cancer

Kidney cancer has been one of the more frequently cited illnesses in PFAS-related studies. Some research linking PFOA exposure to renal tumors in laboratory settings has prompted concern. In humans, epidemiological data have suggested a possible increased risk of kidney cancer among individuals with prolonged exposure to elevated PFOA levels. Wisconsin health officials recommend thorough investigations if multiple kidney cancer cases emerge in a known PFAS contamination zone. Early detection is vital, and many experts advise regular medical screenings for those who believe they have been exposed through private wells or contaminated local water systems.

Testicular cancer

Testicular cancer is another disease linked in certain studies to high PFAS exposure, especially PFOA. Although testicular cancer remains relatively rare, consistent exposure to PFAS could raise risk factors for the disease. This connection has been illustrated through occupational studies of chemical-plant workers and data from populations living near manufacturing sites. Anyone with concerns about PFAS should speak with a healthcare provider to discuss personal risk factors, genetic predispositions, and the benefits of routine screening.

Thyroid disease

Thyroid function is sensitive to chemical pollutants, including PFAS. In some epidemiological studies, PFAS levels appeared correlated with hypothyroidism or other disruptions in hormone regulation. The thyroid helps govern metabolism, energy, and overall hormonal balance. When PFAS interfere with thyroid hormones, people might develop fatigue, weight gain or loss, and other metabolic changes. In my view, if you encounter persistent thyroid problems and know your water or soil may be contaminated by PFAS, talking to a healthcare professional is a wise step.

Liver damage and cholesterol changes

PFAS exposure can affect liver function. Some studies have observed elevated liver enzymes in people with higher PFAS concentrations in their blood. These enzymes can indicate early liver damage, so doctors often recommend follow-up testing. Additionally, PFAS may contribute to increased cholesterol levels, which could heighten the risk of cardiovascular diseases if left unmanaged. Wisconsin communities facing contaminated groundwater often receive public health advisories describing ways to limit exposure while further testing and cleanup unfold.

Government response to PFAS in Wisconsin

I have found that Wisconsin’s government agencies, particularly the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and the Department of Health Services (DHS), have been proactive in managing PFAS contamination. Though concerns persist, the state is gradually introducing new regulations, enforcing existing rules, and coordinating cleanup operations to help protect citizens from known contamination hotspots.

Wisconsin DNR and DHS action

The DNR and DHS have spearheaded statewide action plans to identify PFAS sites, assist communities in testing, and develop treatment guidelines. Wisconsin’s DHS provides health-based recommendations, such as enforcement standards for specific PFAS compounds in drinking water. Meanwhile, the DNR enforces administrative rules that set limits and requires remediation if those limits are exceeded. DNR officials say they intend to align Wisconsin’s rules with the latest federal limits established by the EPA. In 2022, the state adopted a 70 ppt combined standard for PFOA and PFOS in public drinking water, although more stringent measures are expected following the EPA’s 2024 rules.

PFAS regulations and drinking water standards

Under the new federal guidelines, municipalities must ensure PFOA, PFOS, PFNA, PFHxS, and GenX do not exceed designated levels. If they do, water providers may have to install granular activated carbon or reverse osmosis systems. These upgrades can cost ratepayers millions of dollars, so state-level financial support has become a key policy discussion. Communities like Marinette and Peshtigo have already secured funding to manage short-term solutions, such as providing bottled water for residents with suspected contamination. Future compliance will require updating current rulemaking processes, which the DNR has indicated it will do to meet federal benchmarks.

Ongoing monitoring and cleanup projects

Wisconsin’s Remediation and Redevelopment Program tracks cleanup projects statewide and investigates environmental releases. In the Marinette-Peshtigo region, JCI/Tyco maintains treatment systems to reduce PFAS levels in local ditches. Investigations also continue in other areas, including potential contamination near industrial plants and airports. The PFAS Interactive Data Viewer remains a practical tool to see which sites are under observation. State authorities encourage private well owners in these impact areas to test their water more frequently. Fish consumption advisories have been issued for several sites, reminding anglers to limit or avoid intake of fish from contaminated waters.

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

Yes, you can. If you suspect PFAS contamination in your private well or soil, the first step is to contact a state-certified laboratory. The DNR website lists testing facilities that follow approved methods for PFAS analysis. It is important to use the correct sampling procedures so your results accurately reflect the contamination level. A specialized water test usually involves collecting samples in containers that will not themselves contribute PFAS residues. Summaries of test results, along with recommended next steps, can often be reviewed with local health officials who can interpret whether certain PFAS levels pose a current risk to you and your family.

For soil testing, the procedure involves collecting surface and subsurface samples from potential hotspots such as areas where firefighting foam might have been used. If tests detect PFAS above state guidelines, environmental consultants may advise removing contaminated soil or using physical barriers to prevent further spreading. If you are unsure how to begin, I recommend contacting a professional environmental testing firm that knows Wisconsin’s regulatory requirements.

Do you qualify for a PFAS lawsuit in Wisconsin?

Many residents and property owners want to know whether they can pursue legal action for PFAS harm. Lawsuits often center on allegations that manufacturers or facilities responsible for PFAS contamination failed to prevent pollution or failed to warn consumers about the dangers. To see if you are eligible, you would typically need evidence of contamination, documentation that your water or soil test results exceed recommended levels, and a link between the exposure and your health or property damage.

As an individual, I find it helpful to consult legal professionals who specialize in environmental law or personal injury related to PFAS. You can learn more at the official page for PFAS lawsuits:

• PFAS Lawsuit

Additionally, you may want to review:

• Water Contamination Lawsuit
• DuPont Lawsuit

These resources detail the types of evidence you might need and the scope of potential compensation. You can also consider how property values, medical expenses, and ongoing testing costs factor into a legal claim. Most attorneys offer free consultations, so a quick review may help you decide if filing a lawsuit is worth pursuing.

Why choose Legal Claim Assistant

I believe in having a reliable partner when navigating environmental legal questions. Legal Claim Assistant connects individuals concerned about PFAS contamination to specialized attorneys for a free case review. Its network is familiar with local and federal environmental regulations, which is crucial in complex PFAS cases. The aim is to streamline communication between you and potential legal counsel, allowing you to focus on your health and your family’s well-being.

If your water supply, farmland, or community has been impacted by PFAS, reaching out for a professional review can be a valuable step. Through Legal Claim Assistant, you can ask questions about how PFAS contamination might affect your case, whether you are eligible to join a class action, and what evidence you need to support your claim. Because this platform is dedicated to helping people harmed by environmental issues, it aims to ensure you receive fair treatment, both medically and legally.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

When I discuss PFAS in Wisconsin, I often hear common questions regarding the spread of contamination, testing protocols, and the state’s role in cleanup. Below, I address a few of these frequently raised issues.