potential State PFAS regulations could affect artificial turf

On Dec. 13, the Baker-Polito administration and the Department of Environmental Protection announced their intent to file two regulations related to PFAS, a class of manmade chemical compounds considered hazardous to public and environmental health.

Why is this important issue for those considering artificial turf fields? In October, the Boston Globe reported on PFAS chemicals being found in grass blades of discarded turf. We still don't know the full extent of the use of these chemicals in this industry or the potential for the PFAS in the grass to leach contaminants to water or soil.

While many chemicals have been identified as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, the MassDEP regulations pertain to six targeted PFAS compounds.

The first regulation, filed by MassDEP, mandates cleanup by parties found responsible for groundwater contamination of 20 parts per trillion (ppt) or more of the sum of the six PFAS compounds. The cleanup rule also establishes PFAS limits specifically for soil contamination. Massachusetts is one of only a few states that have established formal PFAS cleanup.

What can you do?

1. Attend a public hearing on PFAS. The MassDEP will be holding public hearings on the draft regulations as follows: • Jan. 23, 1 p.m., MassDEP Western Regional Office, Springfield • Jan. 24, 10 a.m., MassDEP Headquarters, Boston • Jan. 28, 10 a.m., MassDEP Southeast Regional Office, Lakeville • Jan. 29, 1 p.m., MassDEP Northeast Regional Office, Wilmington • Jan. 31, 10 a.m., MassDEP Central Regional Office, Worcester

2. Send a email with your comments on the draft regulations to:

program.director-dwp@mass.gov through Feb. 28.

3. Encourage the school committee to consider these risks before they make a decision to install artificial turf at MGRHS.