Montgomery County restricts stream access after PFAS detection | The Locally Times
The Maryland Department of the Environment identified PFAS in a North Potomac stream, prompting a recreational ban and free well testing.
Montgomery County officials issued a health advisory on June 15, 2026, after the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) detected perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in a stream and stormwater pond near Great Seneca Highway and Key West Avenue. MDE testing identified these persistent synthetic chemicals, known as PFAS, in the surface water at that location. ## Water Safety and Restrictions The advisory prohibits wading, fishing, and other recreational contact with the identified stream and stormwater pond. WSSC Water, the public utility provider, confirmed that the public drinking water supply remains safe and meets all federal standards for PFAS. The county government, including the Department of Environmental Protection and the Department of Health and Human Services, is investigating the extent of the contamination and potential sources. ## Testing and Remediation The county government provides free PFAS testing to private well owners within a one-mile radius of the highest sampling locations. An interagency task force manages the investigation and public communication regarding the findings. ## Public Notification County staff are conducting door-to-door notifications and posting signs along the impacted stream and pond. County Executive Marc Elrich directed residents in the immediate area to monitor the advisory. A public meeting regarding the contamination is scheduled for 7 p.m. on June 17, 2026, at DuFief Elementary School, 15001 DuFief Drive, North Potomac. ## Key Questions **Is my tap water safe to drink?** WSSC Water confirmed that all publicly supplied drinking water remains safe and meets all federal standards for PFAS. **How can I get my private well tested?** The county offers free PFAS testing to private well owners located within one mile of the highest sampling locations identified by the MDE. **Where can I learn more about the contamination?** A community meeting was scheduled for June 17, 2026, at 7 p.m. at DuFief Elementary School, 15001 DuFief Drive, North Potomac.