The second round of well testing for agencies who received monitoring orders from the state will conclude this week. Other agencies in the service area who wish to have testing done are encouraged to contact OCWD.
Regional sampling led by SAWPA took place last week in the upper watershed. As part of this effort, OCWD sampled approximately seven surface water sites and wastewater dischargers also performed sampling. Results are expected to be available in October in conjunction with a potential briefing to review all sampling and testing data.
OCWD’s pilot program continues to move forward and has expanded in scope. The original proposal presumed four carbon and two ion exchange designs, but in order to test additional products, OCWD has approximately doubled the size of the pilot. The piloting is anticipated to start mid-October and will last for approximately six to nine months. If necessary, a second phase of the pilot project is also within the project scope.
Separately, in an effort to gather additional information, OCWD responded to a request for water from the Colorado School of Mines (Mines), currently leading a grant-funded-EPA-PFAS study. OCWD shipped water from the designated well to be used for the pilot project. Mines will use the water sample to examine a novel adsorbent. The ultimate goal of the Mines’ study is to develop actionable data that can be used by state and local agencies to reduce exposure to PFAS in communities across the nation.
OCWD continues to work with other stakeholders in the region to share information and updates on PFAS issues. Jason Dadakis will be presenting on PFAS updates at the upcoming Water Advisory Committee of Orange County meeting this Friday, September 6 in the OCWD/MWDOC boardroom. General Manager Mike Markus joined Director Zahra at his “Let’s Talk Water Forum” at the end of August to discuss critical water issues, including PFAS.