Recent Water Quality Tests Reveal Elevated PFAS Levels in Barefoot Bay
Residents of Barefoot Bay and the surrounding Micco area are facing new concerns regarding their local water supply following recent testing results. According to county documents released this week, water samples from the Barefoot Bay water treatment plant have detected levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances—commonly known as PFAS or “forever chemicals”—that exceed the new maximum contaminant levels established by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 2024.
These findings have triggered immediate attention from local officials in Brevard County, who are now assessing the necessary steps to inform the public and upgrade infrastructure to address the contamination.
Recent testing at the Barefoot Bay water treatment plant detected PFAS above the EPA’s new maximum contaminant levels. The chemicals were found in concentrations measured in parts per trillion—tiny amounts that still raise health concerns under the stricter EPA guidelines.
Understanding the Risks and Regulations
PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in industry and consumer products worldwide since the 1940s. They are notorious for their persistence in the environment and the human body, as they do not break down easily. The recent presence of these chemicals in the local water supply is linked to potential health risks, including increased chances of cancer and immune system disorders.
Potential sources for this contamination in Brevard County are currently under review but historically stem from:
- Firefighting foams used at military bases and airports.
- Industrial discharges.
- Runoff from consumer products seeping into groundwater over decades.
While the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is adhering to federal guidelines, the state aims to fully meet the EPA’s strict 4 parts per trillion threshold for major PFAS types by 2027. Currently, systems like Barefoot Bay are operating under the scrutiny of these tightening state and national regulations.
Official Response and Next Steps
Brevard County commissioners are scheduled to address these findings in a meeting this week. The primary focus will be on public communication strategies and the logistical challenges of remediation. District 1 Commissioner Katie Delaney acknowledged the situation, stating, “It’s a very small amount, but it’s enough to concern us.”
The county is exploring advanced filtration technologies to reduce PFAS levels; however, officials warn that such infrastructure upgrades could cost millions of dollars and take years to fully implement.
Advice for Residents
At this time, no immediate emergency health warnings have been issued for Barefoot Bay. However, the detection of these compounds has led some residents to take proactive measures, such as installing home filtration systems or switching to bottled water.
Local activist groups and social media updates have already begun circulating notices to residents in the impacted zones. County officials recommend that residents stay informed through official county updates as testing and monitoring continue. The 2024 water report from the county’s utility crew had previously noted that while most pollutants were within range, PFAS figures required closer scrutiny—a warning that has now materialized into a call for action.
