Understanding PFAS and Why They Matter
PFAS consulting services are becoming essential for water utilities across New York as they respond to evolving environmental regulations and health concerns. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a class of over 12,000 human-made chemicals widely used since the 1950s in products such as nonstick cookware, water-repellent fabrics, food packaging, and firefighting foams. Because of their resistance to heat, oil, and water, PFAS have been highly valued in industrial and consumer applications. However, these same properties make PFAS environmentally persistent, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.”
PFAS can accumulate in soil, surface water, and drinking water supplies. Long-term exposure has been linked to a range of health issues, including:
- Developmental effects in infants and children
- Hormonal disruption
- Immune system suppression
- Liver and kidney damage
- Increased risk of certain cancers
Given this growing evidence, PFAS contamination in public drinking water has become a critical issue for municipal and private water utilities.
The Regulatory Landscape in New York
New York State has enforced a Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) of 10 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA and PFOS since 2020. In June 2025, the State Senate passed Senate Bill S3207A, calling for more stringent PFAS regulation:
- 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS
- 10 ppt for PFNA, PFHxS, HFPO-DA (GenX)
- Implementation of a hazard index to manage cumulative PFAS exposure
- Compliance deadline set for May 1, 2029
Though the MCL change is still pending, this bill aligns NY with the new EPA standards and places urgency on water utilities to take proactive action.
NYSDEC-Recommended Cleanup Procedures
In addition to drinking water limits, the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC) has outlined detailed steps for PFAS cleanup at contaminated sites. Their framework includes:
- Sampling & Analysis Guidelines
- Use of EPA Method 1633 for soil and other media (required since November 2022)
- Preferred water sampling by EPA methods 537.1 or 533
- Field protocols, QA/QC, chain-of-custody procedures and lab criteria detailed in April 2023 guidance
- Data Screening & Cleanup Objectives
- Ambient groundwater guidance: 6.7 ppt for PFOA and 2.7 ppt for PFOS
- Soil cleanup thresholds defined based on land use (residential, commercial, industrial)
- Remedy Design Under DER-10 & Part 375
- Site-specific conditions considered—e.g., soil leachability, dilution factors—for final cleanup objective
- Cleanup is staged: Investigation → Remedial Work Plan → Remedial Action → Monitoring → (if necessary) Institutional Controls or Environmental Easements
- Public Involvement & Oversight
- DEC oversees site documentation, public notices, health reviews, and agency concurrence (DEC & DOH)
Detailed procedures are described on the NYSDEC PFAS guidance document
How CORE’s PFAS Consulting Services Support Utilities
CORE Environmental Consultants, Inc. offers specialized PFAS consulting services to assist water utilities through every stage of regulatory compliance and site remediation—whether triggered by contamination or preventive oversight under newly tightened standards.
Comprehensive PFAS Consulting Services We Provide
Source Water Site Assessment
Identify PFAS in raw water sources—such as wells, surface water intakes, and cross-connections—and assess site contamination risks.
Sampling, Lab & Data Protocols
Implement NYSDEC/USEPA-approved sampling—including soil, sediment, and leachate protocols—and ensure QA/QC using EPA Method 1633 for environmental media and 537.1/533 for water, with ELAP-certified labs.
Regulatory Strategy & Technical Reporting
Support compliance with NYSDOH MCLs and NYSDEC remediation requirements, including preparation of DER-10 work plans, remedial investigation documents, and Part 375 compliance reports.
Treatment Design & Cleanup Planning
Design both in situ and ex situ remedies—including carbon-based capture systems, soil excavation, groundwater treatment, and advanced leachate controls.
Public Engagement & Documentation
Develop community outreach materials, support public comment periods, and prepare institutional controls or environmental easement documentation as needed.
Funding & Grant Assistance
Identify and assist with grant and financing opportunities under:
- NYS Clean Water Infrastructure Act
- Bipartisan Infrastructure Law
- Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF)
Why Utilities Choose CORE For PFAS Consulting Services
- Proven experience implementing NYSDEC PFAS cleanup protocols, including detailed field procedures and remedial action under DER‑10 and Part 375
- Deep familiarity with NYSDOH drinking water rules and upcoming 4 ppt PFAS compliance standards
- Skilled team in developing technical scopes, work plans, and public documentation
- Certified WBE/DBE firm with a local presence and strong client-based responsiveness
Take Action Before Limits Tighten Further
The upcoming regulatory changes in New York—especially the PFAS MCL reductions and enhanced cleanup policies—will require public water systems to act earlier rather than later. Even if your system’s PFAS levels are below current standards, they may now exceed new limits or trigger cleanup obligations under NYSDEC guidance.
