PFAS in Colorado Water
Understanding forever chemicals and what they mean for your household
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What Are PFAS?
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a group of over 12,000 synthetic chemicals manufactured since the late 1940s. They are called "forever chemicals" because of the exceptionally strong carbon-fluorine bond at their molecular core — once PFAS enter the environment, they do not break down through natural processes on any meaningful human timescale.
PFAS have been used in firefighting foam (AFFF), nonstick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, grease-resistant food packaging, waterproof clothing, and industrial processes. The same stability that makes them useful in products makes them persistent in soil, groundwater, and drinking water supplies.
PFAS in Colorado Specifically
Colorado has emerged as one of the states most affected by PFAS contamination, largely due to historical use of AFFF firefighting foam at military installations. Peterson Space Force Base in Colorado Springs and Buckley Space Force Base in Aurora are among the most well-documented sites.
Decades of firefighting training exercises released PFAS-laden foam into surrounding soil and groundwater, creating contamination plumes that have migrated into community water supplies. PFAS have also been detected in municipal systems across the Denver metro area and along the Front Range.
Colorado vs. Federal PFAS Standards
Colorado has adopted its own PFAS standards that in some cases are more protective than federal EPA guidance. The state established enforceable standards for PFOA and PFOS in drinking water, aligning with and in some areas exceeding the EPA's 2024 national PFAS regulations. Colorado's proactive stance reflects the state's recognition of the scope of PFAS contamination within its borders.
Contamination Pathways & Affected Communities
When AFFF foam is used during training or emergencies, PFAS compounds soak into the ground and migrate through soil into underground aquifers. Because they are water-soluble and chemically stable, they travel significant distances through groundwater systems, eventually reaching wells and municipal water intakes. Industrial facilities, landfills, and wastewater treatment plants are additional sources.
Standard water treatment processes — coagulation, sedimentation, and disinfection — do not effectively remove PFAS. Only advanced technologies like granular activated carbon, ion exchange resins, and high-pressure membrane systems (reverse osmosis, nanofiltration) consistently reduce PFAS concentrations. Private well users have no treatment step between the aquifer and the tap.
Peterson Space Force Base and associated firefighting training areas have resulted in documented groundwater contamination affecting local water sources. Communities south of Colorado Springs — Security, Widefield, and Fountain — have experienced some of the most significant PFAS contamination in the state.
Buckley Space Force Base in Aurora has been identified as a source of PFAS contamination, with detections in surrounding groundwater and municipal monitoring. Ongoing monitoring and remediation efforts continue.
Multiple water systems across the broader Denver metropolitan area have reported PFAS detections at varying concentrations. Industrial activity and proximity to various potential PFAS sources have placed Commerce City among communities with documented detections.
A Note on Health Context
Federal agencies including the EPA and CDC have conducted extensive reviews of the scientific literature on PFAS exposure. Research has examined potential associations with effects on cholesterol levels, immune function, thyroid regulation, and developmental outcomes in children. The scientific understanding continues to evolve.
The Water Awareness Foundation is an independent educational resource — not a government agency. We do not make medical claims. If you have specific health concerns related to PFAS, consult with a qualified healthcare provider.
Effective PFAS Filtration Technologies
Reverse Osmosis (RO)
Highly effective at removing PFAS using a semipermeable membrane that blocks contaminants at the molecular level. Point-of-use systems installed under the kitchen sink are the most common residential configuration. Look for NSF/ANSI certification for PFAS reduction.
Activated Carbon Filters
Granular activated carbon (GAC) and carbon block filters can reduce PFAS concentrations, though effectiveness varies by design and specific compounds present. Look for filters with NSF P473 certification specifically for PFAS reduction.
Ion Exchange Systems
Anion exchange resins effectively capture PFAS compounds from water. These are more commonly used in whole-house configurations or municipal treatment settings. Important: boiling water does NOT remove PFAS — it actually concentrates them.
Free Water Analysis
PFAS testing requires specialized lab analysis — standard home test kits don't cover these compounds. They are measured at parts per trillion using EPA Method 533 or 537.1. The Water Awareness Foundation offers a complimentary water analysis for Colorado residents, providing a comprehensive overview of your household water quality including information relevant to PFAS and other contaminants of concern.
Know What's in Your Colorado Water
PFAS awareness starts with understanding your water. Request a free, no-obligation water analysis for your household.