Over the years, contaminant alerts in Yakima County, especially for nitrate and PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) have raised concerns among homeowners. The alerts are particularly important for those who rely on private wells. Keeping up to date on the latest alerts, health risks, and remediation options can help you keep your family safe.
Here we’ll break down the most significant alerts, explain why they matter in Yakima, and what actions homeowners should take now.
Recent Alert: PFAS Found Near Yakima Training Center
Several wells on or near the Yakima Training Center have tested positive for PFAS contamination. The Army and environmental agencies are continuing to trace sources, monitor groundwater, and offering support to affected residents.
Meanwhile, the City of Yakima conducted independent PFAS testing of its municipal sources (wells plus confluence with the Naches River) and reported that no PFAS were detected in those samples.
Yakima County is also offering free PFAS testing for well owners near the DTG landfill. Homes with elevated PFAS results may be eligible for under-sink carbon filter systems (installed free initially) to reduce exposure.
Recent Alert: Elevated Nitrate Levels in the Lower Yakima Valley
Agricultural activities, manure storage, and fertilizer runoff are contributing to elevated nitrate levels in groundwater in the Lower Yakima Valley. In December 2024, a federal court ordered three dairies near Granger to test nearby residential wells and provide bottled water or treatment systems where nitrate levels exceed safe limits.
Currently, the U.S. EPA and Washington state agencies are coordinating a Groundwater Management Area effort to provide free well testing and additional resources.
Washington’s safe drinking water standard for nitrate is 10 mg/L (milligrams per liter). Above this threshold, water should not be used for drinking, baby formula, or cooking.
Why Private Wells are More Vulnerable
Public water systems (Group A systems) are regulated, tested regularly, and required to meet federal standards. In contrast, private wells are often unregulated and may tap into shallower aquifers.
Key risk factors include:
- Shallow well depth or poor casing
- Proximity to agricultural lands or manure storage
- Faulty or aging well construction
- Leaching from septic systems or landfills
Because of these vulnerabilities, many of the local contaminant alerts are tied to private well areas.
What Should You Do?
1. Test Your Water Immediately
Have your water tested by a certified lab. In Yakima County, most nitrate tests cost approximately $40–$55. For PFAS, testing can cost more (often $300–$600), though some programs offer subsidized or free testing. Contact our water expert team for your FREE Water Consultation and Analyis.
2. Use Filtration or Treatment Safely
- Reverse osmosis (RO) and granular activated carbon (GAC) filters are effective at reducing PFAS levels.
- RO systems can also help reduce nitrate.
- Always maintain and replace filters per manufacturer instructions.
3. Consider Temporary Alternatives
If your water exceeds safe levels, use bottled water for drinking and cooking until a treatment solution is installed. Boiling water does not remove nitrate. In fact, it can concentrate it.
4. Stay Updated & Enroll in Local Programs
If you are in the Lower Yakima Valley or near known alert zones, watch for free testing or treatment programs offered by the EPA, state, or Yakima County.
Stay Alert!
Recent PFAS and nitrate alerts in Yakima County highlight the vital importance of monitoring private wells and securing safe drinking water. Even if your municipal supply currently tests “safe,” private wells face unique risks that demand vigilance.
If you’d like help interpreting lab results, selecting a filtration system, or scheduling a home consultation, our team at Independent Water Yakima is here to assist. Contact us for a free water analysis or design of a remediation plan tailored to your needs.