(PUEBLO COUNTY, Colo.) — The Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment (PDPHE), in partnership with the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), is offering free well water testing for PFAS, a group of chemicals linked to long-term health risks.

PFAS, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of human-made chemicals that exist in our environment. Long-term exposure to PFAS can cause health effects such as high cholesterol, immune system problems, negative pregnancy outcomes, and an increased risk of kidney cancer.

Individuals can be exposed to PFAS through drinking water. For those drinking water from a private well, testing is available through the PFAS Testing and Assistance Program (PFAS TAP) for free. Some individuals may also qualify for a free water filter that removes these chemicals and other common contaminants. Free testing is available through this link.

Testing helps identify and minimize exposure to PFAS and even develop recommendations on PFAS contamination.

A public meeting will be held on Wednesday, May 7, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at PDPHE, on the third floor conference room C, 101 W. 9th Street. At the meeting, more information about PFAS will be shared, and individuals will have the chance to ask questions.

To register for the meeting, click above.