SWA to Host Public Workshop on PFAS Testing and Education, Dec. 12 at 5 p.m.

On Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024, from 5 to 7 p.m., the Sweetwater Authority (Authority) Governing Board (Board) will host a public workshop to provide an update on recent testing for PFAS in the Authority’s water supply. This testing was conducted in accordance with the new U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) testing standards that set stricter thresholds for detection and reporting earlier this year.  

Updated EPA Standards and PFAS Testing Results 

In April 2024, the EPA issued a new federal National Primary Drinking Water Standard for PFAS, which requires public water systems to perform initial monitoring by 2027 and to meet new thresholds for contaminants in water, known as Maximum Contaminant Levels, by April 2029.  

PFAS, which is short for Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, are a group of man-made chemicals widely used in industrial and consumer products for their water-resistant, heat-resistant and non-stick properties. They are found globally in items like non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, firefighting foam and food packaging. PFAS are often called “forever chemicals” because they break down very slowly in the environment and can accumulate in water, soil and living organisms. PFAS is an issue that water providers across the globe are facing since the substance is so prevalent in our society. 

The Authority moved forward with this testing in October 2024 while conducting required monitoring. A recent, single test came back in November 2024 and did find a small amount of PFAS in water treated from Sweetwater Reservoir. The PFAS levels were below the mitigation level, which means treatment is not required; however, the level does require notifying customers. Additional quarterly testing throughout 2025 is needed to determine the exact concentration of PFAS in the water supply. The Authority will continue to conduct monitoring and ensure that it is in compliance with the EPA’s new Maximum Contaminant Levels by 2029.  

Sweetwater Authority’s water is safe to drink and meets all current state and federal guidelines. 

Public Information and the December 12 Public Workshop 

Our customers’ water quality and safety are our highest priority. The Authority has launched a public information campaign to help keep customers informed about this topic every step of the way. The campaign will start with a public workshop on Thursday, December 12 at 5 p.m. The agenda for the meeting will be posted on the Board agenda webpage in advance.  

Workshop Details 

• Date/Time: Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024  at 5 p.m.

• Location: Sweetwater Authority's Administrative Offices (505 Garrett Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910)  

The workshop will cover the following topics:   

• The EPA's updated PFAS regulations and testing thresholds 

• Recent PFAS testing results from the district's water supply

• Steps the district is taking to determine the source of PFAS, and long-term mitigation and funding strategies

• Opportunities for questions from the public

Community members are encouraged to attend the workshop to learn more, ask questions and participate in the agency’s outreach efforts. For those unable to attend, the December 12 workshop is the first in a series of public meetings that will continue in February 2025 in Bonita, Chula Vista and National City, where regular updates will be shared with the community. The December 12 workshop materials and information about future meetings will be posted on the PFAS education webpage.  

"At Sweetwater Authority, protecting public health and maintaining the trust of our community is our top priority," said General Manager Carlos Quintero. "We are committed to addressing the presence of PFAS in our water supply with urgency, transparency, and the latest available technology. The workshop on December 12 is an opportunity for us to share what we know, what we’re doing, and how our customers can stay engaged. We encourage the community to attend."

How to Get Involved 

The Authority has established a PFAS education page for customers to stay informed and learn more, at www.sweetwater.org/PFAS. 

For questions, please contact us at PFAS@sweetwater.org or through the PFAS education hotline at (619) 409-6786. 

Source: Sweetwater Authority | December 10, 2024 | Press Release

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