Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment Launches Comprehensive PFAS Testing Program

Well water being tested

Pueblo, CO— The Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment announced a PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) testing program for Pueblo County residents. The grant-funded program aims to test for possible PFAS chemicals in surface waters and wells near potential sources of contamination within Pueblo County. 

 

The program aims to test up to 165 private wells across Pueblo County between January and June 2024. Residents who are interested in no-cost well water testing are encouraged to contact the Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment to check eligibility for the program.

 

What are PFAS?

PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals commonly used in a variety of products for their water- and grease-resistant properties. Found in items such as non-stick cookware, water-resistant fabrics, and firefighting foams, Public Health is focusing on these chemicals due to their persistence in the environment and their potential long term health effects. 

 

What if PFAS chemicals are found? 

If PFAS chemicals are found during testing, the EPA recommends using a granular activated carbon filter or reverse osmosis to reduce or remove the compounds.  Be sure to confirm that filters are certified to meet ANSI/NSF Standards 53 or 58, as these filters have been tested and shown to significantly reduce the levels of PFAS contamination in drinking water.  

 

How to Get Your Well Tested  

Concerned residents can complete a form to determine eligibility to receive well testing through the Pueblo Department of Public Health and

Environment’s website or by calling (719) 583-4307 (Extension 8).  

More information, fact sheets, and filter options are available at pueblohealth.org/pfas.  

###

Map of Pueblo County showing testing areas for PFAS
Map of Colorado City showing testing areas for PFAS

 

Vacancies on Pueblo County Boards

Are you interested in learning about licensing and zoning in Pueblo County…volunteer to serve on the Pueblo County Planning Commission or Pueblo County Liquor and Marijuana Licensing Board.  Go to county.pueblo.org/boards-commissions to apply or learn more about these important boards.  Applications being accepted through December 29, 2023.

Vacancies on Community Boards and Commissions

Pueblo - The Board of Pueblo County Commissioners is seeking volunteers to serve on the following boards and commissions:

  • Pueblo County Liquor and Marijuana Licensing Board
  • Pueblo County Planning Commission
  • Community Services Advisory Commission
  • Community Service Block Grant
  • Pueblo Advisory Council on Aging
  • Pueblo County Fair Board
  • Sangre de Cristo Arts & Conference Center

To apply, go to Departments, Boards and Commissions.

Liquor and Marijuana Licensing Board Meeting

THE LOCATION OF THESE PUBLIC HEARINGS AND/OR MEETINGS IS ACCESSIBLE TO THE DISABLED. ACCOMMODATIONS WILL BE MADE AT SUCH HEARINGS AND/OR MEETINGS FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH SIGHT OR HEARING IMPAIRMENTS, IF SUCH ACCOMMODATIONS ARE REQUESTED AT LEAST TWO (2) WORKING DAYS IN ADVANCE BY CONTACTING PATSY CRESSWELL AT 583-6500 OR TDD AT 583-6550.

Event Date/Time
Location

Facebook Live
Pueblo, CO
United States

Pulse on Pueblo's Health - December 2023

Pulse on Pueblo's Health - Public Health Newsletter December 2023

 

How can I test my well for PFAS chemicals? If your well is eligible for no-cost testing, you can schedule an appointment by visting pueblohealth.org or by calling (719)583-4307 - Option 8

This year, we secured a sampling grant from the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). This grant is dedicated to funding sampling efforts aimed at testing groundwater and surface water within Pueblo County.

The focus is on private well owners and surface water sources that may contain PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) chemicals.

Learn About PFAS Testing
Wash your hands

Hand washing is one of the easiest and most important steps an individual can take to avoid getting sick and stop the spread of diseases and infections.

Not only does washing hands often decrease the spread of diseases from person-to-person, but holiday cooking can be made much safer by regularly washing one's hands, cooking surfaces, and other items used to cook.

Handwashing Tips and More

Public Health Data and Resources

Importance of Handwashing

According to the CDC, if everyone washes their hands routinely, an estimated 1 million deaths per year could be prevented. Many foodborne illnesses are spread because food handlers do not wash their hands before preparing food

If individuals washed their hands routinely with soap and water, they could reduce up to 50% of deaths due to diarrheal diseases. Hand sanitizer should be used after hands have been washed with soap and water, not replace it, unless soap and water are not available.

About 1.8 million children under the age of 5 die each year from diarrheal diseases and pneumonia, the top two killers of young children around the world.

For COVID-19 data, information, and resources, visit the link below.

Pueblo County COVID-19 Data
Subscribe to