Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID KY_2024_Messer

The Effects of PFAS Loading on Biogeochemical Cycling, Fate, and Transport in Wetlands

Institute: Kentucky
USGS Grant Number:
Year Established: 2024 Start Date: 2025-01-16 End Date: 2028-01-15
Total Federal Funds: $309,908 Total Non-Federal Funds: $309,908

Principal Investigators: Tiffany L. Messer

Project Summary: The proposed study will investigate the implications of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) on nutrient and PFAS removal goals in treatment wetlands. Nutrients and PFAS will be monitored over three years using miniature wetlands in a greenhouse to evaluate removal based on wetland design, soil type, PFAS concentrations, and nutrient concentrations. The study will improve USGS predictive models of PFAS fate and transport, evaluate the effectiveness of wetlands for PFAS treatment for wastewater effluent, and improve scientific understanding of PFAS uptake and storage in soil and plants. Further, it will examine the impact of nutrient cycling on PFAS retention and release in treatment wetlands. Findings will be used to train wastewater treatment operators and managers as well as extension agents, generate lesson plans for pre-K and high school levels as well as publications and presentations to academic audiences. One PhD student and three undergraduate students will be supported.