The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR)’s Remediation and Redevelopment Program will be collecting soil samples from locations across Wisconsin as part of a study to characterize background concentrations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in surface soil.  

PFAS are a large group of human-made chemicals that have been used in industry and consumer products worldwide since the 1950s. PAHs are chemical compounds with both natural and anthropogenic sources. Both PFAS and PAHs can impact human health. 

The samples will be collected from surface soil in approximately 150 locations from undisturbed areas that are unlikely to have been impacted by discharges of PAHs or PFAS. Samples will be collected from areas that represent both rural and urban land uses. Analysis of the samples will help characterize the ambient concentration of these contaminants found in soil from atmospheric deposition. The results may be used to calculate statewide background threshold values for PFAS and PAH contaminants in soil. Sampling will occur on DNR-owned land in coordination with the property managers.  

Sampling will take place in 2026 from May through July. Results will be shared in a final report anticipated in 2027. Contact Trevor Nobile with questions about the soil background study at Trevor.Nobile@wisconsin.gov or 414-852-5310.