Residents can go online to learn about PFAS found in groundwater that was sampled across Dakota County.
The county has published a dashboard with data collected from 2018–2025. The county samples public environmental wells and private drinking wells with owner permission.
To view the dashboard, visit dakotacountymn.gov, search PFAS.
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) were widely used for decades for their ability to resist water and grease. They are known as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down in the environment. Some PFAS stay in the human body for many years and build up, which may lead to health problems.
Sampling found PFAS in all 27 environmental wells and in 94 of 114 private drinking wells tested. Eighteen types of PFAS were detected, some at levels above state and federal drinking water guidelines. The dashboard map shows the locations and results for each well sampled.
Sampling to learn where PFAS are helps identify potential sources of contamination. The county has shared the PFAS data with the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency and Minnesota Department of Health. Additional sampling data will be added to the dashboard as it becomes available.
Resources
• View the dashboard at dakotacountymn.gov, search PFAS.
• Learn more about PFAS sources and contamination at pca.state.mn.us, search PFAS.
For details about health impacts of PFAS exposure, go to health.state.mn.us, search PFAS health.
• If you have questions about your private well, contact Dakota County Environmental Resources by email at environ@co.dakota.mn.us or call 952-891-7000.