A kickoff meeting Thursday, March 27 at the Grand Valley State University-Annis Water Resources Institute (AWRI) in Muskegon will begin the formation of a local task force to support environmental response efforts.
The West Michigan Environmental Action Council is partnering with the Muskegon County Environmental Coordinating Council, with support from a grant provided by Freshwater Future, on the new task force, which will respond to PFAS contamination sites in the county.
The state has already identified multiple sites in the county where PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have been detected in groundwater and surface water. While state agencies continue to monitor these locations, this meeting will provide an opportunity to learn about sites in the county and explore how a local task force can support ongoing efforts.
PFAS are a group of human-made chemicals widely used in firefighting foams, industrial processes, and consumer products. These chemicals do not break down easily and have been found in groundwater, drinking water, and ecosystems.
In addition to reviewing local sites and launching a local response, the meeting will include community input and a Q&A session to gather local feedback, which may help guide future efforts.
“This meeting is an opportunity to take a closer look at the sites in Muskegon County and begin discussions on how we can engage locally,” said Tanya Cabala, Lakeshore Outreach Organizer for WMEAC.
Dr. Richard Rediske, an environmental scientist with extensive experience in PFAS research and water contamination issues, has worked on PFAS-related projects across Michigan and has provided technical expertise on contamination issues for local communities. “State agencies are monitoring PFAS sites in Muskegon County, and this meeting will help the community better understand where things stand and what role we can play in addressing concerns,” Rediske said.
Community members, local leaders, and environmental advocates are encouraged to attend in person or virtually to learn more about PFAS sites in Muskegon County and contribute to the formation of a local task force.
For more information, to RSVP, or to request virtual meeting details, please contact Tanya Cabala at tcabala@wmeac.org.
