PORTSMOUTH, N.H. (AP) - A well that serves the Pease Tradeport and the New Hampshire Air National Guard base in Portsmouth has been shut down after the discovery of a chemical contaminant.
State public health officials say the well tested positive for perfluorooctane sulfonic acid at a level above the “provisional health advisory” set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
The contaminant is among a group of chemicals used in carpeting, fire-fighting foam and other products. The foam was used for plane crashes and training exercises at the former Pease Air Force base.
Public Health Director Dr. Jose Montero says very little is known about the chemicals’ health effects on people.
The water system for the city of Portsmouth also was tested since it is linked to Pease, but the chemical was not detected.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.