Strategic resources for assessing PFAS ecological risks at AFFF sites

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science and Toxicology
• Ecological Risk Assessment

Background:

• Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) use has led to widespread per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination.
• Limited scientific information and guidance pose challenges for ecological risk assessment at PFAS-impacted sites.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide strategic guidance for ecological risk assessment at Department of Defense (DoD) sites impacted by AFFF and other PFAS.
• To support risk assessors and site managers in making ecological-risk-based management decisions.

Main Methods:

• Review of four desktop research projects funded by the DoD's Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP).
• Synthesis of recommendations and approaches for assessing ecological risks to threatened, endangered, and common species.

Main Results:

• Developed strategic guidance applicable to ecological risk assessment at AFFF-impacted DoD sites.
• Identified adaptable approaches for both threatened/endangered and common species.
• Provided an overview of resources to support risk-based management decisions.

Conclusions:

• The reviewed projects offer valuable resources and guidance for ecological risk assessment and management at PFAS-impacted sites.
• Recommendations for prioritizing future research needs in PFAS ecological risk assessment are presented.