In a shocking and detailed report it’s been revealed that portions of Kalispell’s wells/water systems which provide water for up to 26,000 people are contaminated far beyond what is permissible. On top of that Montana is far behind other states when it comes to regulations concerning such contaminates.

“With the water system serving roughly 26,000 people, the contaminated wells make up almost 30% of Kalispell’s total pumping capacity according to well production rates in the city.”

“In recent tests, the Environmental Protection Agency detected cancer-linked PFAS contaminants in Kalispell’s drinking water. It’s among the first detections of the chemicals in Montana’s public water supplies, with one well in the city recording contaminants at 330 times current EPA health advisory levels.

That well detected PFOS or perfluorooctane sulfonate in its water. PFOS is one of six “forever chemicals” the EPA plans to begin regulating this year after emerging health impacts observed from ingestion of the substances. Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances are referred to as forever chemicals because of their properties that can result in them lasting in the environment for thousands of years.

PFAS can also build up in the bloodstream. After studies on humans exposed to these chemicals, PFOS was found to adversely impact the immune system, the cardiovascular system, child development and cancer risks, according to an EPA health advisory .

Kalispell is now working with the DEQ to consider actions to address the newly found chemicals. The results make Kalispell the first PFAS water system project in Montana, according to Public Water Supply Chief Greg Olsen with the Department of Environmental Quality.

Kalispell Public Works Director Susie Turner said finding the chemicals in their water came as a complete shock.”

To read the rest of this important article click here.  Alex Mitchell (Daily Montanan)