Recent groundwater tests at the Perdue AgriBusiness facility located in Salisbury, Maryland, have revealed elevated levels of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), also known as "forever chemicals."
As part of a statewide initiative led by the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE), testing was conducted at multiple sites involving multiple companies across the state to assess PFAS levels in wastewater, drinking water and groundwater.
The source of PFAS at the facility has not yet been determined. However, out of an abundance of caution, Perdue AgriBusiness is committed to conducting a thorough investigation, collaborating closely with local and state authorities to understand the nature and extent of PFAS in the area.
"Perdue has been part of the Maryland community for more than 100 years, and we have always prioritized doing what's right," said Kevin McAdams, CEO of Perdue Farms. "Our commitment to safety and environmental stewardship remains unwavering, and we will continue working with local residents and state officials in full transparency, to ensure that all concerns are addressed. In order to determine the underlying source of PFAS, we've engaged outside experts to help us investigate and determine the source."
In addition to these proactive measures, Perdue AgriBusiness is working with residents within a half-mile radius of the facility, approximately 550 homes, offering free well water testing to homes that use private wells. The company has also set up a dedicated webpage and phone line for residents within the specific area to access resources and request bottled water during testing.
"We are working closely with the company and local leaders to support the residents who may be affected by the discovery of PFAS contamination in the groundwater," said Maryland Department of the Environment Secretary Serena McIlwain. "PFAS is an emerging area of concern in Maryland and across the nation. We appreciate Perdue AgriBusiness's cooperation in addressing this matter and helping to protect the health and wellbeing of the community."
MDE and Perdue AgriBusiness will provide updates to the community as new information becomes available.
Anyone with health questions about PFAS can contact the Maryland Department of Health at +1.410.767.6802. For more information on the presence of PFAS in the environment, refer to EPA resources on this topic. Perdue AgriBusiness has set up a webpage with resources, which will be updated as additional information becomes available.
