Toxic PFAS Chemicals in New Mexico Waters

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January 22, 2021 – In cooperation with the New Mexico Environment Department, the U.S. Geological Survey tested groundwater and surface water in 16 counties to find where PFAS are present and which specific types of those toxic substances have found their way into the state’s waters. The tests did not reveal alarmingly high levels of the pollutants at any one site. But the presence of PFAS was widespread geographically, including in the Gila, San Juan, Pecos, Canadian, and Animas rivers, as well as the Rio Grande and the Rio Puerco. Given their toxicity—as well as the fact that they persist within waters, soils, and bodies “forever”—the results are notable. Ahead of the study’s release, we spoke with Rebecca Roose, director of the Water Protection Division at NMED about the study.  

To read the full story, and watch the full interview, visit: https://www.newmexicopbs.org/productions/groundwater-war/2021/01/19/new-pfas-study-reveals-forever-pollutants-persisting-in-nms-waters/ 

Correspondent: Laura Paskus  

Guest:   
Rebecca Roose, Water Protection Division director, New Mexico Environment Department