NORTH PARK WATER PFAS PILOT STUDY
As part of our commitment to providing the safest drinking water possible, North Park Water has been actively engaged in researching and testing the most effective methods for removing PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) from the water supply. Over the past 9 months, we conducted an extensive pilot study to identify the best treatment technology for our system. This study has played a pivotal role in selecting Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) as the optimal solution for PFAS removal.
 
Let's take a step back
PILOT STUDY OBJECTIVES
Picture2
The primary goal of the 9-month pilot study was to evaluate various water treatment technologies for their ability to effectively remove PFAS from the water supply, in anticipation of stricter future regulations and our ongoing commitment to water quality. The study was designed to test several potential treatment methods under real-world conditions to determine which would provide the highest level of PFAS removal at the lowest cost.

The pilot study was structured to answer critical questions:
  • Which treatment method is most effective at removing both long-chain and short-chain PFAS compounds?

  • Which method is sustainable and cost-effective over the long term for the District?

  • How can we integrate the selected treatment technology into our current water system, ensuring a smooth transition and minimal disruption?

 
Let's take a step back
RESULTS OF THE STUDY
  • GAC’s Superior Performance: GAC proved to be highly effective at removing both long-chain PFAS (like PFOS and PFOA) and short-chain PFAS (such as GenX), which are notoriously more difficult to remove using traditional methods. GAC’s adsorptive properties made it the best choice for removing these chemicals at both the lab scale and under real-world conditions.
  • Operational Stability: GAC systems showed excellent stability throughout the pilot, maintaining high removal efficiency across water quality conditions. This was a key factor in the decision to proceed with GAC, as it demonstrated long-term reliability in removing contaminants.
  • Cost-Effectiveness: While other methods, such as ion exchange, showed effective results, GAC was determined to be the most cost-effective solution over the long term, offering the best balance of performance and operational costs.
Website Graphics 2-03
SELECTION OF GAC
Picture1
After thorough analysis and testing, the pilot study concluded that Granular Activated Carbon (GAC) would be the most effective and cost-efficient technology for PFAS removal in North Park Water ’s new $50 million treatment plant. NPW is now in the final design stages of integrating GAC into the treatment process for the full-scale plant.
Website Graphics 2-03
NEXT STEPS
  • Final Design and Construction: The District is moving forward with the final design of the $50 million treatment facility, which will utilize GAC to effectively remove PFAS from the water supply. Construction is expected to begin shortly, with the goal of having the new treatment plant operational within the next few years.
  • Ongoing Monitoring: In addition to the construction of the treatment plant, North Park Water will continue its monthly sampling program to monitor PFAS levels and ensure compliance with evolving regulatory standards.
  • Community Engagement: The District will continue to keep residents informed about the progress of the treatment plant and its ongoing efforts to protect public health. Informational materials, and regular updates will be provided as the project moves forward.