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EPA is seeking applications to conduct research into better understanding potential impacts of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on water quality in rural communities and agricultural operations across the United States. Interested parties have until February 11, 2020 to apply.

In a news release, EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler stated, “EPA is following through on our commitment under the PFAS Action Plan and the memo [which instructed EPA to undertake this effort] to close the gaps in the science around PFAS as quickly as possible by supporting cutting-edge research that will help manage PFAS issues in agricultural and rural economies.”

The agency is hoping the grantees will help to solve PFAS questions including:

  • How do serial biosolids applications impact PFAS concentrations and accumulation over time?
  • What are the impacts of factors such as soil type, crop type, and landscape traits, such as topography, that may influence PFAS concentration and accumulation?
  • How do we treat and clean up PFAS from water, soil and biosolids used in agricultural settings?