Navy Tests Private Wells Near Naval Research Laboratory — Chesapeake Bay Detachment

CHESAPEAKE BEACH, Md. — The Navy has conducted testing of private drinking water wells within a sampling area near Naval Research Laboratory — Chesapeake Bay Detachment for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS.

PFAS are a family of thousands of different chemicals that have been used since the 1950s in many household and industrial products. PFAS are now present virtually everywhere in the world because of the large amounts that have been manufactured and used. Once these compounds are released, many of them tend to stay in the environment for a long time, causing them to often be referred to as “forever chemicals.”

Studies suggest that PFAS may be associated with fertility and pregnancy issues, increased cholesterol, changes in the immune system, risks of certain cancers, liver damage, and increased risk of thyroid disease and asthma. Research is still ongoing into the risks of PFAS.

In the areas near the Chesapeake Bay Detachment, the concern over PFAS comes from the use of firefighting foam over the years. PFAS have been found in the groundwater at NRL — Chesapeake Bay Detachment and in nearby drinking wells in the direction of groundwater flow. The Navy has created guidelines for testing and responding to levels of PFAS.

In this most recent round of testing, the Navy sampled 52 wells and found one well above DoD PFAS interim action levels for private drinking water wells. If levels are found to be above 70 parts per trillion (ppt), then the Navy will provide bottled water for drinking and cooking to property owners or tenants until a more enduring solution is implemented. No samples were above 70 ppt in this round of testing.

The United States Environmental Protection Agency developed a final draft of drinking water standards for certain PFAS in April 2024. The Navy will continue testing for PFAS in the area as needed.

The Naval Research Laboratory Restoration Advisory Board holds regular public meetings regarding PFAS and testing, including a recent open house in September. Interested persons can attend meetings or learn more here.

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