MORNING SENTINEL • May 21, 2024
Dozens of Maine farms experiencing PFAS contamination by “forever chemicals” have been able to stay in business with help from the new state fund, billed as the first of its kind across the nation. PFAS contamination in Maine largely has been linked to the spreading of sludge on farms as an alternative to fertilizer beginning in the 1970s, though the chemicals are used in everything from raincoats to plastic plates. More than 500 residential wells have since been deemed unsafe to drink due to the chemicals as they have seeped into Maine’s land, water and eventually wildlife. Roughly 60 farms across the state so far have dealt with PFAS contamination. But where once things seemed hopeless for these farmers, they’ve since gained hope that there’s plenty of farming in their future.