Arizona News – On March 9, 2024, the Citizens Water Advocacy Group (CWAG) will host a panel discussion regarding PFAS chemicals (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) which are contaminants affecting household water quality in the Tri-City area. Representatives from Prescott, Prescott Valley, Chino Valley and the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality will discuss the latest information on PFAS, how they are distributed into our groundwater, and the treatment technologies proposed for assuring our long-term health.
The presentation will start at 10 a.m. at the Granite Peak Unitarian Universalist Congregation building at 882 Sunset Avenue (two blocks behind True Value) in Prescott. Individuals wishing to view the presentation via Zoom can register at the “Next Event” link at www.cwagaz.org.
PFAS chemicals are found in hundreds of household items and industrial materials. Common products containing PFAS include nonstick cookware, outdoor gear water-resistant fabrics, cosmetics, dental floss, toilet paper, stain-resistant coatings used on carpet and upholstery, dishwasher and laundry detergents, wall paint, Teflon tape, and even food wrappers and pizza boxes. PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they don’t readily degrade in the environment and can accumulate in the bodies of humans and animals.
The City of Prescott has shut down its major producing well at the airport due to PFAS contamination and the Town of Prescott Valley has shut down four wells for detected quantities of PFAS chemicals. Both Prescott and Prescott Valley have discovered PFAS in their sewage effluent used for recharge.
CWAG board member Dr. Peter Kroopnick will host the panel consisting of Tracy Lund, Water Resources Advisor for the Town of Prescott Valley, Joe Young, attorney from City of Prescott, Mark Holmes representing Chino Valley, and Dr. Jasmina Markovski, Senior Engineer, Drinking Water Division, Arizona Department of Environmental Quality. The meeting will be both in person and on ZOOM.
About CWAG: Founded in 2002, the mission of the Citizens Water Advocacy Group is to protect the flow of the upper Verde River and to protect the long-term water supply for the Quad Cities region. CWAG develops science-based positions on critical water issues and educates citizens and elected officials on sensible water policies.
