Summary of Events
Following news in early 2016 of PFOA-contaminated municipal water wells in Hoosick Falls, New York, and concerns about the former Chemfab property in North Bennington, the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources/Department of Environmental Conservation sampled five private drinking water wells and the No. Bennington municipal water supply for perfluorinated compounds and volatile organic compounds. The five private wells tested showed the presence of perfluorooctanic acid (PFOA) at concentrations ranging from 40 to 2,880 parts per trillion. These levels were above the Vermont Department of Health’s drinking water health advisory level of 20 parts per trillion. The Department of Environmental Conservation continued to test residential drinking water wells in North Bennington and Bennington.
In February 2016, the Health Department alerted area health care providers, and in April began offering PFOA blood testing for affected residents. Results of those tests were announced in July.
On January 26, 2017, the Health Department presented a summary of the results of its PFOA blood testing and exposure assessment. The study confirmed that drinking water from contaminated wells was the primary source of exposure to PFOA.
The State of Vermont's investigation and response continues, and included environmental testing in other areas of the state. For more information about the testing, public meetings, and related non-health aspects of the state's actions: Visit the Department of Environmental Conservation website.
Public Information Line – Dial 2-1-1
This is the call line for residents who have questions about PFOA contamination, or to request a water test.
For questions about the health effects of PFOA:
Call the Vermont Department of Health toll-free at 800-439-8550.