Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID TWRI-ProuseDavis-FY25

Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in Texas aquatic ecosystems: evaluating connectivity between urban riverine, estuarine, and marine ecosystems

Institute: Texas
Year Established: 2024 Start Date: 2024-09-01 End Date: 2025-08-31
Total Federal Funds: $7,500 Total Non-Federal Funds: $7,500

Principal Investigators: Antonietta Quigg

Project Summary: Perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of compounds that have been manufactured for usein consumer and industrial products since the 1950s. There is growing evidence that exposure to thesecompounds may result in disruptions to development, growth, and reproduction in aquatic organisms.Galveston Bay is the largest estuary on the Texas coast and located close to the metropolitan area ofHouston, Texas. As a result, Galveston Bay and connected waterways may be vulnerable to negativehuman impacts associated with PFAS contamination. The proposed study aims to quantify PFAS inGalveston Bay, identify freshwater sources of PFAS, and determine if these compounds are moving intothe coastal waters of the Gulf of Mexico. The project will examine 12 EPA priority compounds and itsresults will help inform PFAS management and policy in Texas.