OWASA Presented Update on PFAS Removal Efforts
The utility shared its water safety strategy with the community throughout October.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Organic Food
Live Poll
Do you trust your local water authority to effectively manage PFAS contamination in your drinking water?
On September 15, 2026, the Orange Water and Sewer Authority (OWASA) presented an update regarding its ongoing efforts to remove PFAS from local drinking water. The agency is currently gathering public feedback on its long-term management plan.
Why it matters
Exposure to PFAS can weaken immune systems and increase health risks, making effective water filtration a critical public health priority. OWASA is exploring regional collaborations to improve the affordability and performance of its filtration systems.
Recent testing found 2.3 parts per trillion of PFOA in local treated water, which remains below the EPA's maximum contaminant level of 4 parts per trillion. OWASA currently uses powdered activated carbon to filter the water supply.
The players
Orange Water and Sewer Authority
This public agency provides water and sewer services to residents in Chapel Hill and Carrboro.
The details
OWASA uses powdered activated carbon, which binds to PFAS molecules for removal and subsequent disposal in landfills. To improve efficiency, the authority is working with a North Carolina coalition to develop a regional regeneration facility for granular activated carbon.
Timeline
September 15, 2026: OWASA presented its PFAS removal update.
October 1, 2026: A community meeting took place at the Frank Porter Graham Student Union.
October 2026: OWASA held three community meetings to solicit resident feedback.
Culture Shift
This effort reflects a growing shift toward rigorous local monitoring of chemical contaminants in response to the EPA's 4 parts per trillion maximum contaminant level for PFOA. Utilities across the country are now prioritizing infrastructure upgrades to meet these stricter federal safety benchmarks.
Residents can provide input on the water management plan through upcoming community meetings and an online survey. These efforts directly influence how the utility balances filtration effectiveness with future service costs for the local community.
The takeaway
Maintaining low PFAS levels requires a combination of robust physical filtration and proactive community engagement. Residents should stay informed about utility updates to understand how changes in regional water infrastructure may affect long-term treatment strategies.
Further reading
Learn more about local water management and sustainability efforts at the Organic Food section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Daily Tar Heel.
Live Poll
Do you trust your local water authority to effectively manage PFAS contamination in your drinking water?
