State Agencies Seek Community Input on Efforts to Address PFAS Contamination and Protect Public Health

Delaware residents are invited to share their concerns, experiences and recommendations about per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) during a virtual public listening session at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 18.

PFAS are a group of human-made chemicals used since the 1940s in products such as nonstick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics and some firefighting foams. They break down very slowly and can accumulate in people and the environment. Exposure to some PFAS has been linked to health problems.

The session will provide an opportunity for community members to offer feedback on Delaware’s PFAS Strategic Framework and Implementation Plan, which outlines the state’s efforts to address PFAS contamination, reduce exposure and protect public health. Participants are encouraged to review both published plans, available at de.gov/pfas, ahead of the session to help inform their questions, comments and recommendations.

“Hearing directly from Delaware residents helps us better understand their concerns, experiences and information needs,” said Todd Keyser, a hydrologist with the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC).

Participants are encouraged to share their perspectives on PFAS in drinking water and the environment, on access to public testing and reliable information and on opportunities for the state to improve public outreach and communication.

Staff from DNREC, the Department of Health and Social Services Division of Public Health and the Department of Agriculture  will be on hand to explain the state’s work and answer questions.

The listening session will be held virtually via Microsoft Teams. Registration is encouraged but not required. Public comments will be documented for review by participating state agencies.

Residents may share comments during the session or submit them in advance by emailing DNREC_WHS_Ombudsman@delaware.gov. Virtual registration is available at https://forms.cloud.microsoft/g/FXdueRhA1Z.

For more information about PFAS and Delaware’s ongoing response efforts, visit the https://de.gov/pfas webpage.

About DNREC
The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control protects and manages the state’s natural resources, protects public health, provides outdoor recreational opportunities and educates Delawareans about the environment. The DNREC Division of Waste and Hazardous Substances ensure Delaware’s wastes are managed to protect human, health, safety and the environment. For more information, visit the website and connect with @DelawareDNREC on Facebook, Instagram, X or LinkedIn.

About DHSS
The Delaware Department of Health and Social Services improves the quality of life for Delaware’s citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.

About DDA
The Department of Agriculture has a dedicated staff that strives effectively and efficiently to accomplish our mission, to sustain and promote the viability of food, fiber, and agricultural industries in Delaware through quality services that protect and enhance the environment, health, and welfare of the general public.

Media contacts:
DNREC: Michael Globetti, michael.globetti@delaware.gov
DHSS: Sean Dooley, sean.dooley@delaware.gov
DDA: Michael Lewis, michael.w.lewis@delaware.gov

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