Date/Time: Thursday, February 18, 2021, 7:00pm – 8:30pm

PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a class of more than 9000 man-made chemicals common in firefighting and non-stick coatings that persist in the environment and in the human body, earning them the nickname “forever chemicals.” They are linked to cancer, hormone disruption, immune suppression, and reproductive problems. A CDC survey found PFAS in the blood of 97% of the participants. Our panel of experts will discuss the status of local scientific research to understand the extent of PFAS in our local waters and fish, and policy efforts to stop the use of PFAS.

Panelists:

  • Vicki Blazer, USGS Research Fisheries Biologist — PFAS research in local fisheries
  • Upper Potomac Riverkeeper Brent Walls – PFAS testing in Upper Potomac & MDE’s interagency work group
  • Maryland Del. Sara Love & Sen. Sarah Elfreth – MD HB22/SB195: PFAS Protection Act
  • Anna Killius, Policy Analyst at James River Association – Virginia’s PFAS Drinking Water Study

Moderator: South, West, Rhode Riverkeeper Jesse Iliff

Local Efforts to Research and Stop PFAS, the Forever Chemicals