Grantee Research Project Results
University of Maine PFAS Research: Informing Farm Management Decisions
EPA Grant Number: EM840672Title: University of Maine PFAS Research: Informing Farm Management Decisions
Investigators: Bolton, Jason , Carter, Hannah , Pollard, Lindsey
Current Investigators: Bolton, Jason , Carter, Hannah
Institution: University of Maine , University of Maine Cooperative Extension
Current Institution: University of Maine
EPA Project Officer: Hahn, Intaek
Project Period: November 1, 2023 through October 31, 2027
Project Amount: $3,000,000
RFA: Congressionally Directed Spending (2023)
Research Category: PFAS Detection , Urban Air Toxics , Watersheds , Endocrine Disruptors , Heavy Metal Contamination of Soil/Water , Environmental Justice , PFAS Treatment
Description:
The purpose of this project is to fund research to develop a comprehensive management strategy for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that supports farmers, citizens and the Maine economy and gain a thorough understanding of how these compounds move within the environment and the food system. The development of novel methodologies for analyzing, quantifying, degrading, and rendering PFAS compounds inert will be vital for the success of developing a comprehensive management strategy for PFAS.
Objective:
The objective of this project is to fund research proposals at the University of Maine that advance understanding of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and how these compounds move within the environment and the food system, to provide guidance for the development of effective PFAS management strategies and informed decision-making for farmers, citizens, and the Maine economy.
Approach:
The Project Manager and PFAS Research Coordinator will work with an interdisciplinary faculty committee to develop a PFAS research funding proposal (RFP) for projects at the University of Maine and solicit proposals in alignment with the goals of the FY 2022-2026 EPA Strategic Plan. The committee will evaluate and award funding for up to twelve two-year proposals to support research that helps guide PFAS analysis and resolution strategy and decisions.
Expected Results:
Results for this project could include development of novel methodologies for analyzing, quantifying, degrading, and rendering PFAS compounds inert and effective PFAS management strategies for farmers and local communities. A University of Maine PFAS research public symposium will be planned to share research findings.
Supplemental Keywords:
PFAS, Agriculture, Ecosystems, Remediation, Decision Making, NortheastProgress and Final Reports:
The perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.