Undergraduates at Cornell University have collected over 500 water samples across 300 bodies of water to map 'forever chemicals' in the Finger Lakes region.

Following the EPA's 2023 announcement of drinking water regulations for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of undergraduate researchers at Cornell University has created the first in-depth map of these chemicals across the Finger Lakes region. The students took more than 500 samples across 300 bodies of water, including all 11 Finger Lakes, tributaries, ponds, and puddles, screening them for 24 common PFAS.

Findings Show Low Overall Levels and Identifiable Hot Spots

The mapping project revealed that overall concentrations of PFAS in the Finger Lakes are relatively low, as surface water in the region appears to effectively dilute the chemicals. However, researchers identified hot spots exceeding New York state safety guidance values primarily in standing bodies of water near airports and fire training stations. These sites are linked to airplane deicing fluids and fire-extinguishing foams, though they are generally isolated from drinking water sources.

Public Outreach and Future Research Goals

The student-built interactive map aims to answer community questions and establish a baseline for tracking future water quality changes. The team has presented its work at nearly a dozen conferences and watershed group meetings in collaboration with the New York State Water Resources Institute. As initial members graduate, a second generation of students has taken over the project to continue monitoring and potentially identify high-priority areas in other regions of New York.