City of Kennewick Notifies Drinking Water Customers of PFAS Detection

The City of Kennewick recently detected low levels of certain chemicals called PFAS (per and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in our drinking water.

As part of the City’s Water Quality Monitoring Schedule, water samples are taken and analyzed for PFAS on a quarterly basis.  Samples taken on March 12, 2024, at our Ranney Collector source, resulted in an exceedance of the SBOH (Washington’s State Board of Health) SAL (State Action Level) limit for PFOS. The SAL for PFOS is 15.0 parts per trillion (ppt) and the sample had results of 17.9 ppt. It’s important to note that the laboratory detection limit is measuring in parts per trillion, which is generally equivalent to one (1) drop in 20 Olympic sized swimming pools.

What is PFAS?
PFAS are a large family of manmade chemicals that are tasteless, colorless, and odorless (commonly known as “Forever Chemicals”). They do not occur in nature and are produced to make many products including stain-resistant carpets and fabrics, nonstick pans, fast food wrappers, grease-proof food containers, waterproof clothing, and a special kind of firefighting foam. Over many years of manufacturing and use, these unregulated chemicals have been released into the environment from industrial plants, fire training sites, consumer products and other sources.

Our Water Quality
As part of our commitment to transparency, we will continue to monitor the water quality and provide updates as needed. You can find more information about our water quality on our website at https://www.go2kennewick.com/346/Water-Quality

Next Steps
The City of Kennewick is actively working to address the PFAS detections and comply with newly released EPA regulations. The City has contracted with RH2 Engineering to evaluate treatment options for our water supply sources.  The City will continue to monitor for PFAS and will likely implement improvements in advance of the compliance date. 

What Should You Do?
There is nothing required of you at this time. The Washington State Department of Health recommends that if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or mixing infant formula with tap water, consider using an alternative source for drinking or mixing infant formula. All consumers can learn more about PFAS and how to reduce exposure by visiting the PFAS information page on the State’s Department of Health website.
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More Information
For the full public notice and more information, please visit our website at www.Go2Kennewick.com. The full public notice will also be published in the Tri-City Herald on Sunday, May 12th, 2024.