Why Do We Care About PFAS?

Studies have shown a linkage between PFAS exposure and change in liver enzymes, cardiovascular effects (such as high blood pressure or pregnancy-induced hypertension), decreased antibody responses to vaccines, and developmental effects (such as small decreases in birth weight). The EPA has also established PFAS as a possible carcinogen, as there is a link between PFAS …

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What Are PFAS?

PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of human-made (synthetic) compounds. They’re an emerging contaminant with minimal state and federal regulation. They are also bioaccumulates, meaning the chemical accumulates gradually over time in organisms, particularly fish. In October 2021, the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) issued its first fish consumption advisory based …

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Notice of Mountain Christian Church Discharge Application Received

This just in from the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). We have requested the permit application and an informational meeting to discuss the application and permitting process that would allow discharges of 2,400 gallons per day of treated domestic wastewater from the Mountain Christian Church Wastewater Treatment Plant into groundwater via absorption trenches. We …

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Notice of Hampstead Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) Application Received

This just in from the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE). We have requested the permit application and an informational meeting to discuss the application and permitting process that would allow discharges totaling up to 900,000 gallons per day from Hampstead WWTP into Piney Run, a tributary of Loch Raven Reservoir, and an unnamed tributary …

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Microplastics and How to Reduce Their Presence in the Gunpowder River

Gunpowder Riverkeeper has welcomed Johns Hopkins Graduate student, Jenn Galler, to our water quality monitoring program. Jenn wrote the following article on microplastics and their relevance to water bodies and the Gunpowder River. Read more about Jenn’s work here.  Microplastics are just what they sound like: tiny plastic particles that result from both commercial product …

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