The Association of Environmental & Engineering Geologists (AEG) Great Basin Chapter recently hosted a technical presentation by Broadbent Project Scientist Erielle Cushing, who presented PFAS in Nevada’s Water, a data-driven overview of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) occurrence, sampling, and treatment considerations across the state.

The presentation drew from Broadbent’s direct involvement in statewide PFAS investigations supporting the Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP), public water systems, and wastewater facilities. Topics included the chemical properties of PFAS, their persistence in the environment, and how these characteristics influence sampling and treatment strategies.

Key presentation highlights included:

• PFAS regulatory and sampling timeline, outlining major EPA milestones from early PFOA stewardship efforts through finalized analytical methods through the 2024 National Primary Drinking Water Regulation
• Nevada surface water investigations, including Broadbent’s 2023–2024 sampling of 58 locations statewide for NDEP, with discussion of detection patterns, resampling efforts, and seasonal variability
• Drinking water findings, including Broadbent’s 2023–2024 sampling of public and transient water systems to support the State’s understanding of PFAS occurrence prior to EPA rule implementation
• Wastewater sampling results, with PFAS detected in both influent and effluent at all sampled facilities
• Treatment technologies, including activated carbon, ion exchange, high-pressure membranes, foam fractionation, and emerging approaches, along with key considerations related to disposal and system design
• Funding mechanisms available to support PFAS treatment, particularly for small and disadvantaged communities

Based in Broadbent’s Reno office, Cushing supports PFAS investigation and sampling programs for surface water, groundwater, drinking water, and wastewater systems. Her work reflects Broadbent’s practical experience implementing field programs, navigating evolving regulatory frameworks, and supporting agencies and utilities as PFAS requirements continue to develop.

As PFAS regulations advance at both the state and federal level, Broadbent remains focused on helping clients understand site-specific conditions, interpret sampling results, and evaluate treatment and compliance pathways grounded in real-world data and regulatory guidance.