The Remediation and Redevelopment (RR) Program is sending 3,038 letters to parties responsible for cleanup at open remediation sites in Wisconsin.

The letter is a reminder to those responsible parties (RPs) to consider per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) or other suspected emerging contaminants (e.g. 1,4 – Dioxane) during the site investigation scoping phase of their remediation efforts, per NR 716.07 and NR 716.09. A site investigation may be considered incomplete if the RP does not consider and address all hazardous substances or environmental pollution at a known site or facility subject to ch. 292, Wis. Stats., including emerging contaminants like PFAS.  Failure to do so could result in the need for additional assessment work or field work and potential closure delays.

Environmental consultants should consider the site history, chemicals used at the site or facility, and the likelihood that substances were discharged or environmental pollution is present. If the site or facility historically utilized or accepted PFAS-containing materials and it is probable that these substances are part of the known discharge or environmental pollution at a site, it is appropriate for a site investigation work plan to include testing for PFAS. A work plan describing the proposed scope of the field investigation and sample analysis should be submitted to the DNR project manager per NR 716.09.

If PFAS was already considered during the scoping and development of the site investigation work plan, no additional steps may be required.

Responsible parties should work with their environmental consultant to determine the appropriate next steps. For more information on PFAS investigation and cleanup, please visit dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/PFAS/Cleanup.html.