The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) started sampling in Hastings for PFAS in 2007.

First consistent detections of PFOA by the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) were reported in 2011 (Hastings met MDH guidance for PFAS).

Quarterly sampling of all municipal wells continues by the Minnesota Department of Health.

On June 15, 2022, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) releases Interim Health Advisories for PFAS, indicating that Hastings wells may be above safe levels for the first time.

On September 6, 2022, representatives from the Minnesota Department of Health present on PFAS to the Hastings City Council.

On February 21, 2023, a City Council Workshop is held to discuss the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency's results of the Phase 1 Environmental Study on PFAS. This is the first look into the potential sources of PFAS in Hastings groundwater.

On March 14, 2023, the Environmental Protection Agency releases DRAFT Maximum Contaminant Levels to be 4 ppt for PFOA and PFOS.

We first noted PFAS as an emerging contaminant in the 2022 Consumer Confidence Report, which was published sometime in late spring 2023 (deadline July 1).

On January 16, 2024, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) provides health-based values for PFOA and PFOS, which are much lower and put all 6 Hastings wells PFAS levels above those values. No action was recommended with the guidance. View the MDH announcement.

April 10, 2024, the EPA issues a new Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for PFOA and PFOS at 4 ppt. This is now a legally enforceable level and starts the clock of 5 years to remove these PFAS chemicals below the MCL.

Within 30 days of the new regulation on May 9, 2024, City of Hastings holds a public meeting on PFAS with MDH and MPCA to present on this topic and answer questions.