PFAS

What are PFAS?
PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of human-made chemicals. They can affect your health at low levels and can accumulate in your body over time. They’ve been used for over 50 years and are in many everyday products. These chemicals don’t break down easily and are now common in our environment. PFAS are being found in more and more drinking water supplies, including in Dane County. It’s important to limit your exposure as much as possible to protect your health.

Communities in Dane County have tested their water through the DNR. Visit the DNR website and click “PFAS Sampling Info” under “Layer Controls.” Click on the circle next to the name of the municipality to find out the results.

Public Health Offering Private Well Testing for “Forever Chemicals”

If you’re in an area near PFAS contamination, it’s recommended that you test your well for PFAS. If you live in Dane County, Public Health can test your well, help you understand results and what to about them. Public Health Madison & Dane County is providing free PFAS water testing for income eligible homeowners with private wells in Dane County. VisitPublic Health's drinking water testing page for details and find out if you’re eligible for free testing. Eligibility for free testing is based on income and the number of people in the household. If you are not eligible for free testing, reduced paid testing is also available at a lower price than many other labs typically offer. For more information, call Public Health Madison and Dane County at (608) 266-4821 or visit Public Health Madison and Dane County Info Regarding PFAS.

For more information, please contact Environmental Health:

Email: health@publichealthmdc.com
Phone: (608) 242-6515
Fax: (608) 242-6435
Español: (608) 243-0380

In Dane County, the Wisconsin State Lab of Hygiene is also able to test for PFAS. If you get your well tested, you can use this tool from the Department of Health Services to compare your test results to State standards. If PFAS levels are high, you can take steps to limit your exposure.