IRNA's PFAS Water Testing Project in Private Wells Study
About PFAS
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are man-made “forever chemicals” used in products like nonstick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, food packaging, and firefighting foams. Increasingly detected in Florida’s drinking water, PFAS compounds persist in the environment and the human body and have been linked to cancer, immune and hormonal disruption, developmental effects in children, and cardiovascular impacts. Because PFAS are tasteless, odorless, and colorless, testing is often the only way to know if drinking water is affected.
Project Overview:
IRNA is launching a community-led PFAS testing study focused on private well households in Indian River County that are not connected to municipal utilities.
Target areas include:
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Wabasso,
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Gifford,
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Vero Lake Estates,
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Fellsmere, and
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Blue Cypress Lake area
Recent detections of PFAS, including PFOS, in drinking water above federal health-based limits in nearby public water systems underscore the need for expanded monitoring. However, private wells are typically excluded from these programs, leaving a significant data gap.
Using free, standardized sampling kits and clear instructions, participating residents will collect water samples for laboratory analysis of 55 PFAS compounds, helping better understand potential exposure and risk. Together, we can help identify whether PFAS are present in local groundwater and support efforts to protect our community’s drinking water.
How to Get Involved:
We need YOUR well water sample! By signing up, you’ll have the opportunity to:
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Learn what PFAS are and why they matter
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Submit a private well water sample for free testing by a certified laboratory
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Receive your results directly, along with information about what they mean
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Contribute to a better understanding of PFAS in private wells across the county
Learn more about the project and how YOU can submit a water sample by registering for a webinar below:
Please Note: This program is currently open only to home or business owners in Indian River County who use a private well for drinking water and are not connected to municipal utilities. If you have questions about eligibility, please contact Missy@IndianRiverNA.com
Project data will be shared once implementation is underway.
