Responding to PFAS in Agriculture

Background

Maine is a leader in taking proactive steps to identify and address the impacts of PFAS in the environment, particularly in agriculture. PFAS collectively refer to thousands of varieties of man-made chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, used to repel oil, grease, water, and heat. PFAS exposure has been linked to various health concerns. Laws in Maine and other states are beginning to limit their use in certain products. However, they are difficult to destroy, earning them the label of “forever chemicals”. Despite this, meaningful action can be taken to limit their impact on agricultural products, ultimately protecting consumer health and allowing most farms to continue farming safely.

PFAS may enter soil, water, and air in a variety of ways. One way that PFAS may enter soil is through the application of residuals such as sludge (also called biosolids) from wastewater treatment plants and septage. Amounts and types of PFAS will vary depending on both where the residuals came from and how frequently they were applied. PFAS in residuals can enter soil and water, be taken up by crops or animals exposed to contaminated fields or water sources, and ultimately be consumed by humans.

The application of residuals to farm fields is a common practice in U.S. agriculture, as they contain nutrients and other organic matter that can enhance soil health and agricultural production. Maine banned the land application of residuals in 2022. Some states are beginning to implement testing requirements or other limits.

The Maine Department of Environmental Protection is required, through Public Law 2021, Chapter 478, An Act To Investigate PFAS Substance Contamination of Land and Groundwater (sometimes called “LD 1600”), to evaluate soil and groundwater for PFAS at locations licensed to land apply sludge or septage prior to 2019. This systematic, risk-based process has been a primary driver of DACF’s work to date, providing timely and relevant expertise to commercial agricultural operations.

Timeline of Maine's Efforts

Read how DACF's PFAS response efforts developed and expanded over time (PDF)

What We Do

What is the PFAS Response Program?

The 2021 Biennial budget provided funding and staff to the Bureau of Agriculture to "strategically and effectively respond to PFAS concerns and issues as they arise." With expertise from Agricultural PFAS Specialists, who conduct field work and serve as the primary point of contact for farmers, veterinarians, and others, the PFAS Response Program:

• Conducts comprehensive testing in soils, water, and products to determine whether PFAS is present and at what levels;
• Interprets results in the context of that farm's operations;
• Prevents food deemed unsafe for consumption from entering the food supply;
• When action is necessary to reduce contamination in farm products to acceptable levels –
  • Develops and provides clear recommendations for next steps the farm can take to achieve safe products, and
  • Provides financial assistance to implement any necessary changes

The work of the PFAS Response Program was formally established in statute in the fall of 2025 and is currently undergoing rule-making.

What is the PFAS Fund?

In 2022, Governor Mills and the Maine Legislature established the $60 million PFAS Fund to provide robust, multi-faceted support to address PFAS in agricultural communities.

The PFAS Fund:

• Provides additional financial and professional support to PFAS-impacted commercial farmers;
• Purchases PFAS-contaminated real estate from farmers who want to sell, and manages the properties for public benefit;
• Funds research to help farmers make informed decisions about how to adjust their operations; and
• Supports access to blood testing and other health-related initiatives.

The work of the PFAS Fund is governed by a statute and rules, and guided by an implementation plan (PDF).

Additionally, the PFAS Fund Advisory Committee makes recommendations to DACF regarding administration of the PFAS Fund.

Current PFAS Fund Advisory Committee Members +

Public Meetings & Public Hearings

• No meetings currently scheduled.

Meeting Archive +

Reports +