PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are synthetic compounds. They are used in a variety of industrial and consumer product applications including non-stick cookware, firefighting foams, fast food packaging, and pesticides due to their resistance to heat, water, and oil. Two of the most well-known chemicals, PFOS and PFOA, have been phased out in the United States, but they do not break down easily and can linger in the environment. 

The presence of PFAS in source water and drinking water is of increasing concern to water professionals due to their widespread use and environmental persistence. Continued exposure to high levels of specific PFAS can lead to adverse health effects.  A report released by the Environmental Working Group found variants of the PFAS in 74 community water systems between 2013 and 2019, according to data from state and federal regulators.

Vallecitos customers should be relieved to know that the Vallecitos Water District has tested for PFAS as required by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and none were detected in our drinking water supply. Additionally, the Metropolitan Water District and the San Diego County Water Authority, who supply imported water to Vallecitos, also have not detected PFAS in their treated water. PFAS are predominantly found in groundwater sources, which Vallecitos does not use for its drinking water supply.

• For more information on PFAS, go to the Environmental Protection Agency website or the State Water Resources Control Board website. 
  
  
• To learn more about Vallecitos’ drinking water quality, view the District’s annual Water Quality Reports. Customers who want a hard copy of the report may email or call the Public Information Department at (760) 744-0460. (Note: PFAS sampling is not included on Vallecitos’ water quality reports, as the District is not required to report on chemicals that were not detected).

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