PFAS Testing & Becoming Forever Free
Harmful ‘Forever’ Chemicals and
the Forever Free program
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Problem
Suncoast Waterkeeper is dedicated to monitoring and advocating for the removal of toxic substances, such as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), from the Suncoast's waterways. PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals created for their ability to repel oil and water. Due to their unique ability, PFAS do not degrade in nature and have been coined “forever chemicals”. Persistent in the environment, PFAS can pose significant health risks to humans and animals.
PFAS contamination has become a pressing environmental and public health concern in the Suncoast region. A statewide study conducted by John A. Bowden, an Associate Professor at the University of Florida, revealed that Florida overall has large concentrations of PFAS, and Sarasota County has one of the highest concentrations in surface water in the state. As of June 2025, by comparing data from public drinking water systems, Florida ranked 8th out of 51 for the highest concentrations of PFAS.
Forever Free: Empowering Communities Through PFAS Testing
The Forever Free project was created and focused on North Port, FL, due to the initial research showing a high concentration of PFAS and because its drinking water primarily comes from the Myakkahatchee Creek. Our goal is to examine the quality of drinking water in the City of North Port more closely. To help the public understand the issue, we will meet with residents of North Port to explain what PFAS are, why they matter, and how they can pose a risk as “forever chemicals” in drinking water. After learning more, residents will have the option to submit a water sample for testing. A third-party laboratory will analyze the water samples, and the results will be explained to each resident who submitted a tap water sample. Residents will be advised on how to remove PFAS, if necessary, and those experiencing economic hardship will be provided with a water filter. Overall, we hope to investigate whether PFAS is in high concentrations in North Port drinking water, and if so, work with the community on solutions and identify potential sources.
The Forever Free project aims to foster transparency, science-based action, and community trust. By providing accessible PFAS education and support, Suncoast Waterkeeper hopes to empower residents with knowledge and help North Port take meaningful steps toward being free from “forever chemicals”.
City of North Port residents who are interested in participating in Forever Free are encouraged to sign up HERE.
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Solution
PFAS can be removed from drinking water by homeowners installing and maintaining NSF/ANSI 53 or 58 certified water filters. Filters that meet NSF/ANSI 53 standards are certified to reduce health-related contaminants, like PFAS. NSF/ANSI 58 certified filter utilizes reverse osmosis and high pressure to reduce contaminants. For best results, homeowners should follow the user guide of the filter they have chosen and replace filters every three to six months.
Suncoast Waterkeeper actively addresses the issue of PFAS contamination by participating in water sampling and analysis to identify the presence and levels of these harmful chemicals in our waterways. We worked with Waterkeeper Alliance to monitor waters upstream and downstream of industrial areas on the Suncoast. With those results in hand, we are advocating for stricter regulations on PFAS usage, disposal, clean-up, monitoring, and enforcement. With the rollback of the national drinking water regulations for PFAS, it is even more important to contact your congress to act on PFAS exposure and pass the Clean Water Standards for PFAS Act.