In 2022, Kristen Hanneman made a small decision that turned into a town-wide crisis. When state scientists offered to test her well in Stella, Wisconsin, she didn't realize the repercussions it would have. Her well tested for levels of PFAS, known as 'forever chemicals,' thousands of times higher than the federal limit. Now, officials advise against consuming fish and game from the area, as the contamination affects local wildlife too. With around 40 million Americans relying on private wells, many remain unaware of the hazards lurking in their water.
The issue stretches beyond Stella, as the PFAS contamination has been traced back to the waste produced by an industrial paper mill over decades, leading to serious health concerns for residents. Yet many states do not require routine testing of private wells. While proposals for cleanup continue to unfold, the situation remains dire for families like the Hannemans, who now rely on bottled water and constant fear about the long-term effects of their water supply.
The issue stretches beyond Stella, as the PFAS contamination has been traced back to the waste produced by an industrial paper mill over decades, leading to serious health concerns for residents. Yet many states do not require routine testing of private wells. While proposals for cleanup continue to unfold, the situation remains dire for families like the Hannemans, who now rely on bottled water and constant fear about the long-term effects of their water supply.
