Maine Supports Farmers with PFAS Research Grants

Seven Projects Funded to Manage PFAS And Protect Public Health

Maine is stepping up efforts to help farmers affected by PFAS contamination by awarding $3 million to seven important research projects. These studies will explore how PFAS chemicals move through the environment and suggest ways for farmers to reduce risks and stay safe.

PFAS, once found in biosolids used as fertilizer, has been detected in 90 farms across the state. Though the practice was banned in 2022, the chemicals remain in the environment, affecting soil, animals, crops, and potentially humans.

To support farmers, the state launched a $60 million PFAS Fund. The $3 million in grants is part of that fund and will support studies focused on PFAS detection, crop absorption, soil treatment, and livestock health.

“Maine has been a national leader in addressing the impacts of PFAS on our food supply,” said DACF Commissioner Amanda Beal. “These research grants will build on that work and deepen our understanding of how PFAS move through agricultural systems and identify better ways for farms to manage and minimize risks.”

Projects include developing affordable PFAS sensors, studying how PFAS affects eggs and milk, using biochar to trap PFAS in soil, and testing new plasma technologies to remove chemicals without harming soil health.

The grant selection was competitive, with 22 proposals reviewed by experts from universities, agencies, and the private sector. Winners include the University of Maine and Harvard University.

In addition to funding research, the PFAS Fund helps purchase affected farmland and offers health-related services and financial aid to impacted farmers. So far, most farmers have been able to continue operations with the help of these programs.

More information can be found at www.maine.gov/dacf/ag/pfas/index.shtml.