In recent years, the presence of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in drinking water has emerged as a significant environmental concern nationwide. Stillwater is proactively addressing this issue to ensure the safety and quality of its water supply.
Understanding PFAS and Their Impact
PFAS are synthetic chemicals found in various industrial and consumer products. Due to their persistence in the environment, they are often referred to as “forever chemicals.” Exposure to PFAS has been linked to health risks, making their presence in drinking water a pressing concern.
Stillwater’s Proactive Measures
In 2022 and 2023, Stillwater identified unsafe PFAS levels in its drinking water and promptly ceased using the affected wells. To address this, the city initiated the construction of a new PFAS treatment facility at Well #10. As of December 2025, significant progress has been made, including the installation of new sanitary sewer manholes, raw and finished water piping connections, and concrete footings for the treatment building. The project is expected to be substantially complete by May 1, 2026. Source
Community Involvement and Future Plans
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) is actively investigating potential PFAS sources in Stillwater, including sampling private wells. This investigation aims to identify the contamination source and assess the risk to private wells. Homeowners with wells showing PFAS levels above drinking water standards will be eligible for treatment provided by the MPCA. Source
These efforts underscore Stillwater’s commitment to safeguarding its water resources and ensuring the health and well-being of its residents. Community members are encouraged to stay informed and participate in local initiatives aimed at maintaining water quality.