PFAS: Agricultural Impacts – Research & Response in Maine (webinar)

Note: This webinar is presented for informational purposes. The views expressed do not necessarily reflect those of each of the NEWMOA-member states, and the strategies and technologies discussed should not be considered an endorsement by NEWMOA or its members.

Mary Yurlina, Maine Department of Agriculture, Conservation, & Forestry (DACF) presented Maine’s PFAS Response for Agriculture – Program Launch & Lessons Learned [PDF]. Maine DACF began investigating PFAS contamination at farms in 2016 when milk, water, and soil at a dairy farm was found to contain high levels of PFOS. As of 2024, DACF has worked with over 100 farms to help understand and interpret results from soil and crops. Mary shared DACF’s approach, including the challenges encountered, success stories, and lessons learned.

Duncan Pfaehler, Maine DACF presented Investigating PFOS in Vegetables on Farms in Maine [PDF]. Duncan presented the results of DACF’s research into the uptake of PFOS in different vegetables grown on PFAS-impacted fields in Maine and the resulting advice to farmers.

View the Recording:

For more information, contact Jennifer Griffith at jgriffith@newmoa.org.