Worried about PFAS in Wayland’s drinking water or what it means for your next move? You’re not alone. Whether you live here now or you’re considering a purchase or sale, it helps to know what the Town has reported, how new rules may change the picture, and what you can do at home. This guide gives you the essentials so you can make clear, confident decisions. Let’s dive in.
Wayland PFAS snapshot
Wayland began testing in 2020 and detected elevated PFAS in early 2021 at the Happy Hollow wellfield. The Town installed a resin treatment system and reports that treated Happy Hollow water has shown non detect or very low PFAS since startup. Blending with other wells has kept finished water below Massachusetts’ PFAS standard at the times reported. You can review current results and updates on the Town’s PFAS page and dashboards. Visit the Town’s PFAS page for current sampling results and notices. (Wayland PFAS information)
In an April 18, 2023 update, the Town reported post treatment wellfield values at that time: Happy Hollow less than 2.0 ppt, Chamberlain 17.9 ppt, Baldwin Pond 2.75 ppt, and Campbell 2.1 ppt. The Town noted that blended water delivered to homes was below the Massachusetts PFAS6 limit at that time. (Wayland PFAS Treatment System Update, 4/18/23)
What state and federal rules mean
Massachusetts PFAS standard
MassDEP set a public water Maximum Contaminant Level for the sum of six PFAS compounds, called PFAS6, at 20 parts per trillion (20 ppt). This applies to public water systems and guides town actions and notices. (MassDEP PFAS standard)
EPA’s 2024 national rule
In April 2024, the U.S. EPA finalized national drinking water limits for several PFAS. Key numbers include PFOA = 4 ppt and PFOS = 4 ppt, with other PFAS at 10 ppt and a hazard index for mixtures. Public systems must monitor and, if needed, add treatment over defined timelines. (EPA PFAS regulation overview)
What this could mean in Wayland
Wayland states it has met the Massachusetts PFAS6 standard with its current operations. With EPA’s lower limits, the Town has discussed additional treatment and a permanent connection to the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority to ensure compliance as rules evolve. (Wayland news on federal standard and MWRA planning)
Health context in plain language
PFAS are long lasting chemicals. Studies have linked certain PFAS exposure to immune effects, increased cholesterol, and other health outcomes. Sensitive groups, including pregnant or nursing women, infants, and people with compromised immune systems, are a focus in public guidance. (CDC PFAS health information)
When PFAS6 is above the Massachusetts standard, MassDEP and Wayland have advised sensitive groups to use bottled water or a verified low PFAS source for drinking, making infant formula, and cooking until mitigation is in place. You can find these notices and updates on the Town’s PFAS page. (Wayland PFAS information)
What you can do now
Check current Wayland results
Start with the Town’s PFAS dashboard and posted monthly reports. You’ll see the most recent sample values, any advisories, and treatment updates. (Wayland PFAS information)
If you have a private well
Private wells are regulated locally and the state PFAS6 standard does not automatically apply. MassDEP recommends testing if you are near a known PFAS source or in an area where town wells have shown PFAS. Use a MassDEP certified lab and EPA Method 537 or 537.1, and follow sampling instructions. If no PFAS is detected, MassDEP suggests retesting at least every 10 years, or more often if risks are present. (MassDEP PFAS in private wells FAQ)
If your results are elevated
For sensitive household members, consider bottled water for drinking and cooking until you have a reliable solution. In the short term, point of use treatment can reduce many PFAS when properly selected and maintained. Refer to Town or MassDEP guidance for any interim recommendations. (Wayland PFAS information)
Choose effective in home treatment
The EPA notes that granular activated carbon (GAC), ion exchange (IX), and reverse osmosis (RO) can reduce many PFAS at the tap when systems are certified and maintained.
How to vet a device:
- Look for NSF/ANSI certification for PFAS reduction, such as NSF/ANSI 53 for filters or NSF/ANSI 58 for RO, or an equivalent accredited listing.
- Check the certifier’s directory and the product performance data sheet to confirm which PFAS compounds were tested and expected reduction levels.
- Replace cartridges and membranes on schedule. Performance drops if maintenance slips.
- For whole house systems, consider professional design and disposal of spent media. (EPA guidance on certified filters)
Costs and planning considerations
Municipal treatment, emergency connections, and ongoing operations can affect water rates. Wayland has used a PFAS related surcharge as part of its water rate structure, documented in Town materials. Reviewing current rate schedules can help you plan household budgets. (Wayland water rate information)
Buying or selling in Wayland
If you are buying a home with a private well, MassDEP strongly recommends testing for PFAS as part of due diligence. Some municipalities in Massachusetts have local rules that require well testing before a sale, so check with the local board of health. If testing shows high levels, owners should contact local officials and MassDEP for guidance. In certain cases, PFAS in groundwater can trigger reportable conditions under Massachusetts cleanup laws, so it can be helpful to consult municipal officials or an environmental attorney. (MassDEP PFAS in private wells FAQ; legal context overview)
For sellers on municipal water, keep documentation of the Town’s recent PFAS notices and your own home’s water fixture filter maintenance, if applicable. Clear records help buyers feel informed and reduce surprises during inspection.
If you want a practical plan for testing, timing, and disclosure in your next move, reach out. You’ll get straight answers and a strategy that fits your goals with no drama. Connect with Mike Reece to talk through your options.
FAQs
What is PFAS and how does it affect Wayland drinking water?
- PFAS are long lasting chemicals; Wayland detected elevated levels in 2021, added treatment at Happy Hollow, and reports finished water below the Massachusetts PFAS6 standard at the times reported. You can review current results on the Town’s PFAS page.
How do the new EPA PFAS limits compare to Massachusetts standards?
- Massachusetts regulates PFAS6 at 20 ppt, while EPA set lower limits for certain compounds such as PFOA and PFOS at 4 ppt. Public systems must monitor and may need additional treatment to meet the federal rule.
Which home water filters reduce PFAS for Wayland homeowners?
- EPA points to granular activated carbon, ion exchange, and reverse osmosis as effective when devices are properly certified and maintained. Verify NSF/ANSI certification and follow replacement schedules.
Should Wayland homeowners with private wells test for PFAS?
- Yes, MassDEP recommends testing, especially if you are near potential sources or in areas where municipal wells showed PFAS. Use a certified lab, follow sampling protocols, and keep records.
Will PFAS issues affect Wayland real estate transactions?
- PFAS can influence buyer due diligence, negotiation, and timing, especially for homes with private wells. Testing, documentation, and clear planning help reduce friction and protect both parties.
