Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID 2023_VA_Furst

Sanitation infrastructure in vulnerable communities: Current and future risks to water security

Institute: Virginia
USGS Grant Number:
Year Established: 2023 Start Date: 2024-01-01 End Date: 2026-12-31
Total Federal Funds: $292,355 Total Non-Federal Funds: $292,355

Principal Investigators: Kirin Emlet Furst

Project Summary: Septic systems can be a source of contaminants like pharmaceuticals and "forever chemicals" (PFAS). Extreme precipitation events may increase the amount of these contaminants that are transported to waterways. This is a major concern in areas where septic systems are upstream from drinking water supplies, like in Northern Virginia. This research will investigate which factors make septic systems more or less likely to be sources of these contaminants, and evaluate the extent of the threat to drinking water safety. We will conduct a field study to measure PFAS and other contaminants in streams impacted by septic systems, and develop publicly available interactive mapping tools to enable others to visualize our results and screen for vulnerable septic systems in other areas of the U.S. This research will produce new knowledge regarding septic system contamination, practical recommendations for protecting water supplies, and support training of students at George Mason University.