Strategic resources for assessing PFAS ecological risks at AFFF sites
Jason Conder, Jeanmarie Zodrow, Jennifer Arblaster, Barry C. Kelly, Frank A. P. C. Gobas, Jamie G. Suski, Erin Osborn, Meredith Frenchmeyer, Craig Divine, Andrea Leeson
Abstract
Abstract The use of aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) in the United States has caused concern about the potential effects of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on ecological resources. Moreover, the limited availability of scientific information and a lack of guidance have collectively resulted in significant challenges for ecological risk assessors supporting site-specific investigations and management decisions at PFAS-impacted sites. To address these needs, the environmental science and technology program of the Department of Defense (DoD), the Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP), began funding four desktop review projects in 2018. Project teams were tasked with developing strategic guidance for assessing ecological risk at AFFF-impacted DoD sites. The projects focused specifically on ecological risk assessment practices for threatened and endangered (T&E) species; however, the recommendations and approaches presented in the projects are also applicable and adaptable to common species. The present review provides risk assessors and site managers an overview of how the resources provided in these projects can support ecological-risk-based management decisions at AFFF and other PFAS-impacted sites. Additionally, we synthesize perspectives offered by the four projects on a path forward for PFAS ecological risk assessment, including research needs that we recommend should be prioritized by the scientific community. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2021;17:746–752. © 2021 SETAC KEY POINTS Aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) use has resulted in concern regarding potential ecological risks associated with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), and a lack of guidance has resulted in significant challenge for site-specific investigations and management decisions at AFFF sites. The Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP) began funding four desktop review projects in 2018 to develop strategic guidances for assessing ecological risk at AFFF-impacted sites. This review provides risk assessors and site managers an overview of how the resources provided in these projects can support ecological risk-based management decisions at AFFF and other PFAS-impacted sites. The review also highlights key research needs that, if addressed, will aid in improving site-specific ecological risk assessments for PFAS at AFFF sites.