Canada’s National Defence says PFAS were spotted during routine environmental monitoring work at CFB Trenton.
PFAS, short for poly- and perfluoroalkylated substances, were found at the former firefighter training area, former fire hall, former maintenance buildings and other areas at the base.
The manufactured chemicals are used in a variety of consumer and industrial products, including firefighting foams.
In a release, the Department of National Defence (DND) says the PFAS impact at 8 Wing/CFB Trenton are largely linked to historical use of aqueous film-forming foams at the Wing.
As a precaution, the DND is expanding its testing at 8 Wing/CFB Trenton to better understand the sources and extent of PFAS at the Wing and surrounding areas.
“Based on potential off-site PFAS migration along the southern section of Meyers Creek, DND is collaborating with the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks, South East Health Unit and the City of Quinte West to complete an off-site water use survey for homeowners in the area to better understand whether private wells are in use along the southern section of Meyers Creek,” the department said in its release.
“While a review of municipal records confirmed that all properties in the area of interest are now connected to the municipal watermain, we have contacted residents near Meyers Creek to participate in a survey to better understand if private water wells remain in use in the area. If active wells are present, well water tests may be offered as a precaution.”
Residents with questions about DND’s testing program can contact the Media Relations Office of the Department of National Defence at 613-904-3333.
Health-related questions about water quality can be directed to Southeast Health Unit at 613-966-5500.
In a note to Quinte News, the City of Quinte West says that “If you receive your water from the City of Quinte West’s municipal drinking water service your water remains unaffected.”
Questions regarding the City of Quinte West’s municipal water can be directed to the city’s water team at 613-392-2841, ext. 4901.
