Wastewater treatment facilities assess PFAS regulations and treatment options in upcoming plans

During the recent Sedona City Council meeting on July 9, 2025, significant discussions centered around the management of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in wastewater treatment, highlighting both current challenges and future strategies for the community.

One of the key points raised was the absence of active regulations for PFAS removal in wastewater, with the city currently operating under the same maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) as those imposed for drinking water. The council noted that while Sedona's wastewater treatment facilities already meet certain water quality standards, they are still grappling with PFAS levels that exceed acceptable limits, particularly for PFOA, a specific type of PFAS.

The meeting revealed that the city has been proactive in testing both influent and effluent water, with results indicating that the effluent contains higher PFAS levels than the influent. This situation, while perplexing, is not uncommon in wastewater treatment processes due to various factors, including the materials used in treatment equipment.

Council members discussed the need for further research to identify the sources of PFAS within the treatment process. Suggestions included investigating the coatings used in equipment that may contribute to PFAS contamination. The conversation underscored the complexity of addressing PFAS, as these substances are often integral to the materials used in wastewater treatment due to their resistance to corrosion.

Looking ahead, the council is considering two treatment alternatives for PFAS removal: granulated activated carbon (GAC) and ion exchange. Both methods have been established as effective for PFAS treatment, but they come with different operational requirements and implications for future expansion. GAC, for instance, requires more frequent media changes but offers greater flexibility for adapting to new regulations, while ion exchange has a smaller footprint but involves more stringent disposal requirements for spent media.

The city has already included budget provisions for ongoing PFAS sampling and testing in its ten-year capital improvement plan, recognizing the importance of staying ahead of regulatory changes and ensuring the safety of local water sources.

As Sedona navigates these challenges, the discussions from the meeting reflect a commitment to addressing environmental concerns while safeguarding public health. The council's proactive stance on PFAS management is a crucial step in ensuring the community's water quality and environmental integrity in the years to come.