PFAS Pollution in Drinking Water in the City of Avon Park
We’re deeply concerned about the recent PFAS water contamination in the City of Avon Park, and we’re here to help. As a law firm focusing On environmental health issues, we understand the gravity of the situation and the potential impact on residents’ well-being. With PFOA levels exceeding safe thresholds, affected individuals must grasp the full extent of their legal rights and options. We’re committed to providing the guidance and support needed to navigate these challenging times, and we invite you to explore how our experience can make a difference in your life.
Water Provider PFAS Detection Details
The City of Avon Park’s water system recently detected PFOA contamination at 5.5 parts per trillion (ppt) in a finished water sample collected on July 24, 2023.
As personal injury lawyers, we’re deeply concerned about the potential health risks of PFAS water contamination in the City of Avon Park, Florida. PFOA is a type of PFAS chemical that has been linked to various health issues, including cancer, thyroid problems, and developmental delays in children.
The water provider’s detection details reveal a troubling level of contamination that exceeds the safe threshold set by health authorities.
We urge residents of Avon Park to stay informed about this issue and seek legal advice if they believe their health has been compromised by PFOA exposure.
We urge the water provider to be transparent about their findings and take immediate action to address this serious issue. There is overwhelming evidence showing how PFAS is cancer-causing, such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and ulcerative colitis.
City of Avon Park PFAS Contamination: Vital Information for Residents
Avon Park, Florida, located in Highlands County, is home to approximately 10,000 residents who rely on the City of Avon Park’s water system for their drinking water. On July 24, 2023, a finished water sample revealed perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) contamination at a level of 5.5 parts per trillion (ppt). PFOA, a type of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS), is a persistent, man-made chemical tied to serious health risks, including kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and ulcerative colitis. This detection confirms the presence of PFAS in Avon Park’s water supply, posing a significant concern for the community.
Details of PFAS Contamination
The City of Avon Park’s finding of 5.5 ppt of PFOA exceeds the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) regulatory limit of 4 ppt for PFOA, a standard established to safeguard public health. Florida has not enacted a specific Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for PFAS as of April 2025, meaning the EPA’s federal limit of 4 ppt serves as the governing threshold. This exceedance highlights the critical need for action to address PFAS contamination in Avon Park’s water system. Potential sources of PFAS in the region may include industrial discharges, historical use of firefighting foam at nearby facilities, or leaching from consumer products—each requiring investigation and accountability.
Residents of Avon Park and nearby communities, such as Sebring and Lake Placid, should remain vigilant about potential PFAS risks in both public and private water sources. Private wells in Highlands County could also be impacted, particularly given the area’s proximity to agricultural and industrial activity. The City of Avon Park must disclose its testing results fully and take swift measures to mitigate this contamination.
Health Risks and Proactive Steps
PFOA and other PFAS compounds are classified by the EPA as probable human carcinogens. Extensive research links prolonged exposure to:
- Kidney cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Ulcerative colitis
- Thyroid disease
- Developmental delays in children
Residents are urged to demand regular updates from the City of Avon Park and review water quality reports, available through official municipal channels. Those with private wells should arrange independent PFAS testing through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to evaluate potential contamination beyond the public system.
What Is PFAS?
PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of artificial chemicals that have been widely used in various industrial and consumer products since the 1940s.
These chemicals, including PFOA, are known for their water—and oil-resistant properties, which make them useful in products like non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, and firefighting foam.
However, PFAS has been linked to severe health concerns, such as cancer, immune system dysfunction, and developmental issues.
The recent detection of PFOA in the City of Avon Park, Florida’s water system, has raised alarm among residents and public health officials.
As personal injury lawyers, we’re committed to helping communities affected by PFAS water contamination, holding responsible parties accountable, and ensuring access to safe drinking water for all.
PFAS’s Connection to Cancer
Studies have shown that exposure to PFAS may increase the risk of certain cancers. Mainly, testicular cancer has been linked to PFAS exposure.
PFAS has also been associated with a higher incidence of ulcerative colitis. This is an inflammatory bowel disease that can raise the risk of colon cancer.
PFAS and Testicular Cancer
Numerous studies have linked exposure to PFAS chemicals, like those detected in Avon Park’s water supply, to an increased risk of testicular cancer.
According to recent data, PFOA, one of the most common PFAS compounds, has been found in the City of Avon Park’s water at a level of 5.5 PPT.
This water contamination in Florida is a serious concern for residents, as prolonged exposure to these chemicals can have severe health consequences.
As personal injury lawyers, we’re deeply concerned about the potential impact of PFAS on the community’s health.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with testicular cancer and suspect that PFAS exposure may be the cause, it’s essential to explore your legal options and seek the compensation available under the law.
PFAS and Ulcerative Colitis
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PFOA Contamination in the CITY of AVON Park’s Water System Harmful to Residents?
Yes, PFOA contamination in drinking water is harmful to residents. It’s been linked to severe health issues like cancer and thyroid disease. We’re concerned about the levels detected and are monitoring the situation closely.
How Long Has PFOA Contamination Been in the CITY of AVON Park’s Water Supply?
We are still determining how long PFOA has been in Avon Park’s water. The contamination was detected on 7/24/2023 at 5.5 ppt, but it’s possible it was present before then. We’re still investigating this issue.
About the Author: PFAS Lawyer Matthew Marin
Attorney Matthew Marin is a seasoned legal professional with a deep commitment to environmental justice and client advocacy, particularly in cases involving water contamination. A graduate of Roger Williams University School of Law, Matthew has been practicing law since 2008, focusing on environmental law and personal injury cases. With over 15 years of experience, he has honed his skills in litigating complex cases related to water quality and safety, earning a reputation for meticulous case preparation and tenacious representation. Matthew has successfully handled numerous cases involving PFAS in water supplies, securing favorable outcomes for his clients and contributing to the remediation of drinking water. His approach is characterized by thorough research, strategic planning, and a relentless pursuit of justice. Known for his compassionate approach, Matthew takes the time to understand each client’s unique situation, ensuring they feel heard and supported throughout the legal process. His extensive knowledge and experience inform his work on the legal aspects of water contamination and environmental protection.
Marin & Murphy Law Firm is not currently accepting new PFAS claims. This page is general information about water quality and public health, not legal advice, and reading it or contacting the firm does not create an attorney-client relationship. The firm is licensed in South Carolina, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and Connecticut; its PFAS matters are handled with co-counsel who maintain local counsel arrangements nationwide. Matthew T. Marin, SC Bar #102771, 997 Morrison Drive, Suite 200, Charleston, SC 29403.