The Barnstable County government meeting on August 1, 2025, focused on the ongoing PFAS remediation efforts in the region, particularly addressing groundwater contamination issues. Key discussions revolved around the geological analysis of the site and the implications for groundwater flow and contamination spread.
During the meeting, officials presented detailed geological cross-sections of the area, illustrating the layers of sand and silt that affect groundwater movement. The geology consists of a thick layer of fine to coarse sand, approximately 60 to 70 feet deep, overlying a silty clay layer. This geological structure creates a "mounding effect" in the groundwater, causing it to flow radially from the top of the mound in all directions, including north, east, and south.
Understanding this geological framework is crucial for mapping groundwater contamination levels. The team emphasized the importance of data analysis in identifying areas with insufficient information about contamination spread. As a result, additional monitoring wells have been installed, particularly in the southern part of the site, to better assess the extent of the contamination plume.
The meeting underscored the ongoing commitment of Barnstable County to address PFAS contamination and ensure the safety of local groundwater resources. The next steps will involve continued monitoring and data collection to inform remediation strategies and protect public health.