New Study Reveals PFAS Contamination in Drinking Water Across Michigan Aquifers: 1 in 3 Residents Potentially Affected

Up to 3.2 million Michigan residents may be drinking water tainted with PFAS, the “forever chemicals” linked to serious health issues, according to a groundbreaking national study. This means that roughly one in three Michiganders could be drawing their water from aquifers containing detectable levels of PFAS, spotlighting the widespread reliance on private wells and the impact of polluting industries across the state.

A Nationwide Issue with Local Impact

Michigan’s PFAS rates rank among the highest in the nation due to its industrial history and high rate of private well usage. Still, Michigan isn’t alone in grappling with PFAS contamination; across the U.S., up to 95 million people rely on water from PFAS-impacted aquifers. Bruce Lindsey, project manager for the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) study, remarked that the findings surprised even the researchers. “We would have expected a little less than that,” he said, highlighting the scope of PFAS exposure risks.

The USGS study, published in Science, combined predictive modeling and real-world data to estimate the PFAS risk across communities nationwide. Researchers considered factors like proximity to industries known to use PFAS, urban density, and aquifer depth. Michigan’s contamination numbers are sobering: between 2.3 and 3.2 million people, including 1.4 million private well users, may be affected. 

“Forever Chemicals” and Their Health Risks

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are used in products like nonstick cookware, fast food packaging, and waterproof fabrics. Known as “forever chemicals,” they are difficult to break down and can accumulate in the environment over time. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to thyroid issues, developmental delays, hormone imbalances, immune system problems, infertility, and certain cancers. There are now 328 confirmed or suspected PFAS contamination sites across Michigan, with more being added regularly.

Sandy Wynn-Stelt, a psychologist and activist who became involved in PFAS advocacy after finding her own well polluted by PFAS from a nearby shoe tannery, expressed alarm at the study’s findings. “It should make everybody catch their breath and think,” she said. “In America, we seem to think our water is safe. Evidently, it’s not, and sadly, the burden seems to be going back on everyday citizens, not on the people that manufactured and profited from making [PFAS].”

The EPA Steps In, But Gaps Remain

In 2020, Michigan became one of the first states to regulate PFAS in public drinking water supplies, following a wave of PFAS contamination discoveries. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) followed suit with national PFAS standards in 2023. However, private wells, which supply water to many Michiganders, remain outside of these regulations and are not routinely tested for PFAS.

For those in high-risk areas, testing their water is critical, says Lindsey. The Michigan state lab offers PFAS testing for $290, and experts encourage homeowners to consider filtering their tap water.

A Call for Accountability and Stronger Regulations

Wynn-Stelt and other activists are calling on Michigan legislators to strengthen protections and demand more accountability from industries responsible for PFAS pollution. “People feel this false sense of security because there’s no factory across the street and there’s no dump next door,” she noted. “But that doesn’t mean pollutants hadn’t been dumped there decades ago.”

Proposed legislation currently under consideration would require companies to hold insurance for potential cleanup costs and implement stricter waste management protocols. While these reforms are essential for protecting Michigan’s future water quality, industry groups argue that such regulations could hamper business.

Taking Action: What You Can Do

• Get your water tested: For those relying on private wells, American Aqua offers water testing for contaminants like PFAS.
• Consider water filtration systems: American Aqua offers many filters that effectively remove PFAS from drinking water.
• Stay informed: Check interactive maps to understand your community’s risk level and keep up with any new regulations or advisories.

As researchers and activists continue to push for regulatory changes, residents can take their own steps to reduce PFAS exposure:

With growing awareness, Michigan is at a critical juncture in addressing the PFAS crisis. Stronger policies and proactive testing may help reduce exposure, but as advocates stress, accountability from industries is key to safeguarding Michigan’s water for future generations.

Contact us to learn more about how you can safeguard your home’s water from harmful contaminants like PFAS. We offer free in-home water treatment assessments and equipment recommendation.