Montgomery County Health Officer Dr. Kisha Davis has issued a localized public health advisory for portions of the Muddy Branch watershed and nearby stormwater ponds in North Potomac after elevated levels of PFAS, commonly known as “forever chemicals,” were detected in water samples near Great Seneca Highway and Key West Avenue.
The highest concentrations were found in a stream adjacent to the former Montgomery County Public Safety Training Academy. As a precaution, residents are being advised not to fish, consume fish, swim, wade, or allow pets to enter the affected waters, as the primary health risk is from ingesting contaminated water or fish.
County officials emphasized that WSSC Water’s public drinking water remains safe and meets federal PFAS standards. The County is offering free testing to private well owners near the affected area, has formed a multi-agency task force to investigate the contamination, and will continue environmental sampling and public outreach. A community meeting is scheduled for June 17 at DuFief Elementary School in North Potomac, where officials will provide updates and answer questions from residents.
