Date
Monday, July 20, 2026
Time
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM
Location Name
Room 10, Level 2
Name
Building a PFAS Treatment Master Plan: A Practical Roadmap for Kentucky Water Utilities
Track
Drinking Water Emerging Issues
Description
Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) continue to reshape the regulatory and operational landscape for drinking water providers across the Commonwealth of Kentucky. With new federal standards, evolving state guidance, and growing public concern, Kentucky utilities face increasing pressure to understand their PFAS exposure and chart a clear, defensible path toward long term compliance. This presentation introduces a structured approach to developing a PFAS Treatment Master Plan tailored to Kentucky’s diverse water systems – from karst influenced groundwater sources to Ohio River intakes. The session outlines how Utilities can characterize PFAS occurrence, evaluate treatment feasibility, and prioritize investments using risk based, data driven methods. Attendees will explore the strengths and limitations of leading treatment technologies, including granular activated carbon, ion exchange, and high pressure membranes, with attention to Kentucky specific considerations such as source water variability, residuals management, and funding opportunities. Real world examples illustrate how Utilities can balance regulatory timelines, affordability, and operational resilience while maintaining public trust. Following the presentation, participants will have a clear framework for developing their own PFAS Treatment Master Plan, one that supports transparent decision making, positions Utilities for future regulatory changes, and strengthens water quality protection across the Commonwealth.