State and county health officials are investigating the source of surface water contamination in Fort Gratiot Township. According to the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, elevated levels of the chemical PFAS have been reported in ditches throughout Fort Gratiot Township. Perfluoroalkl substances, or PFAS, are used in a multitude of industrial processes and fire fighting foam. They have been known to leach into drinking water and are prominent at old industrial sites, landfills, and military installations across the state. According to health officials, there is currently no risk to public health from the suspected PFAS contamination. Testing is underway to determine the source of the contamination.
