The North Tyger River

The Water Log: September 2023

Greetings!

In this issue of the Water Log, we are discussing how PFAS (Per- and Polyfluorinated Substances) are present at unsafe levels in our waterways. In addition to explaining PFAS and how it gets into our water, we will share resources now available to Upstate residents to test for this chemical in their own well water.

Fall is a busy time of year for the Clean Water team. Keep reading for more details on upcoming events, including one related to the Tyger River Recreation Region, which we shared with you in last month's Water Log.

Enjoy the cooler weather,

Erika J. Hollis

Clean Water Director

Upstate Forever

PFAS

PFAS (Per– and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are man-made chemicals that affect our environment through impacted wastewater, landfill leachate, surface water, groundwater and air. PFAS present public health and environmental issues in communities across the United States and have been used worldwide in consumer goods and in some industrial applications to make products that resist heat, oil, stains, grease and water.

These chemicals are widespread in the environment because of their longevity, unlimited uses and resistance to breakdown. PFAS can accumulate in people, wildlife and fish. Common consumer products that may still use PFAS in their production include, but are not limited to:

• some nonstick cookware
• food packaging (ex: microwave popcorn bags, fast food wrappers, sliced cheese wrappers, pizza boxes)
• stain-resistant carpets, fabrics and water-resistant clothing
• paints, varnishes and sealants
• cosmetics
• dental floss
• fire-fighting foams used on flammable liquids
• pesticide formulation packaging

PFAS were initially developed because of their effectiveness at repelling grease and water in many textile applications as well as their usefulness in making foam to extinguish large scale fuel fires.

Photo credit: SC Department of Health and Environmental Control (SC DHEC)

The Issue with PFAS

Exposure to certain PFAS have been associated with increased rates of cancers in the liver, kidney, and testes, decreased birth weights and immune suppression, among other adverse health effects. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a series of Health Advisories for four PFAS in drinking water since 2016. These Health Advisories were derived to protect the most sensitive water consumers, such as pregnant, breastfeeding women, and infants, from any potential adverse health effects that might occur.

Considering these adverse health effects, South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) has taken steps to help South Carolina's small drinking water systems. They are also helping residents with private wells to test their water for PFAS and have created a grant opportunity for this purpose. If PFAS are detected, they will provide a filter system to mitigate PFAS contamination. To learn more about PFAS and how SCDHEC is helping, visit this website. 

Members of Bolten & Menk, Inc., Upstate Forever, and The Tyger River Foundation

at Anderson Mill (Photo Credit: K. Amidon)

The Tyger River Recreation Region and Upcoming Events

The team heading up the Tyger River Recreation Region project is excited to share our upcoming participation at 2023 Spartanburg Soaring -- International Kite Festival on Saturday, October 14th! This free, family-friendly event will feature live music by local musicians, performing acts/artists, tasty food trucks, local arts and crafters at a maker's market, an interactive kid's zone with activities for all ages, and so much more! Come out between 11am - 5pm and see our team!

Additionally, we are thrilled to share the new Tyger River Recreation Region website! We encourage you to visit the website and complete the survey, fill out the comment map, and share with other members of your community. We want to hear from you!

If you want to see more of the Tyger River and learn more about public engagement opportunities with the recreation project, view the team's new informational video!

Lastly, mark your calendars for Lake Robinson Day! Hosted by Greer CPW, Upstate Forever and other environmental and educational organizations who will come together on October 21st from 10am-3pm. This is yet another opportunity to join your community and to come out and learn about what our organizations do. Make sure to pre-register to receive a free lunch, participate in a rain barrel workshop, or be involved in a tree giveaway!

We'll see you there!

Lake Robinson (Photo Credit: Greer CPW)

Until next time 

Thank you for signing up to receive The Water Log, Upstate Forever’s email newsletter dedicated to Clean Water news, issues, and information. We appreciate your interest and dedication to safeguarding the Upstate’s water resources.  

If you have any questions about this topic or would like to learn about another Clean Water issue in a future edition, please contact me at [email protected]. 

Upstate Forever is a nonprofit conservation organization that protects critical lands, waters, and the unique character of Upstate South Carolina.  Over the past two decades, we have worked to protect the natural assets that make the Upstate so special — our farmlands, forests, natural areas, rivers, and clean air. We are committed to ensuring that our communities are vibrant and retain their green spaces, outdoor heritage, and unique identities in the face of rapid development and significant sprawl. Our vision is an environmentally healthy, economically prosperous Upstate that offers a high quality of life now and for future generations.

Funding for the Tyger River Recreation Region project provided in part by the Mary Black Foundation through the Healthy Eating|Active Living grant program.

For more information, visit our website at upstateforever.org or send us an email.