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 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.

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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, including parts of Wabasso, Gifford, Vero Lake Estates, and Fellsmere. 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.

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Using free, standardized sampling kits and clear instructions, participating residents will collect water samples for laboratory analysis of multiple PFAS compounds, helping better understand potential exposure and risk across the county.

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How to Get Involved:

• Identify participants: Help locate households or businesses that rely entirely on well water for drinking, cooking, and bathing.

• Add them to the database: Ask participant to submit their information using this form so we can contact them when sampling begins:
  👉 Submit your information here

• Assist with sampling: Volunteer to help collect water samples from homes and businesses when scheduled.

• Spread the word: Help us reach more participants across the county to ensure broad, representative sampling.

 

To learn more about this project or to volunteer, please email Missy@IndianRiverNA.com.