PFAS Pollution in Drinking Water in the City of Irving
We’re concerned about the PFAS water contamination in Irving, Texas, and how it’s affecting our community. At Marin & Murphy Law Firm, we’ve been investigating the issue and believe that many residents may have been exposed to harmful levels of PFOA, which has been linked to severe health problems like kidney cancer. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with a related condition, it’s crucial to understand your legal rights and options. Let’s look at the situation and the steps you can take to protect yourself and your family.
Water Provider PFAS Detection Details
In the City of Irving, Texas, PFOA contamination has been detected at 4.9 parts per trillion (ppt) in the water system, as reported by the water provider’s entry point sampling on January 29, 2024.
This detection of PFOA in Irving’s water supply is concerning, as it indicates that the city’s residents may have been exposed to this harmful contaminant through their drinking water.
As a water provider, the City of Irving has a responsibility to ensure that the water it supplies to its customers is safe and free from harmful contaminants like PFOA.
The detection of 4.9 ppt of PFOA through their sampling efforts highlights the need for further investigation and potential remediation measures to address this contamination issue.
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 Irving Water Supply PFAS Contamination: Vital Information for Residents
Irving, Texas, located in Dallas County, is home to over 250,000 residents who rely on the City of Irving’s water system for their drinking water. On January 29, 2024, sampling at an entry point in the water system revealed perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) contamination at a level of 4.9 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 Irving’s water supply, raising critical concerns for the community.
Details of PFAS Contamination
The City of Irving’s finding of 4.9 ppt of PFOA exceeds the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) regulatory limit of 4 ppt for PFOA, a threshold established to safeguard public health. Texas has not enacted a specific Maximum Contaminant Level (MCL) for PFAS as of April 2025, meaning the EPA’s federal standard of 4 ppt serves as the primary reference point. This exceedance signals a pressing need for further investigation and corrective action. Potential sources of PFAS contamination in the region may include industrial discharges, historical use of firefighting foam at nearby facilities, or runoff from urban activities—each requiring scrutiny and accountability.
Residents of Irving and neighboring areas, such as Grand Prairie, Euless, and Dallas, should remain vigilant about potential PFAS exposure. Private wells in Dallas County could also be at risk, particularly given the proximity to industrial and commercial zones. The City of Irving must disclose its testing results fully and act swiftly to address this contamination.
Health Risks and Protective Actions
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
- Immune system impairment
Residents are encouraged to request regular updates from the City of Irving’s water provider and review water quality reports, available through official municipal channels. Those with private wells should arrange independent PFAS testing through the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) to evaluate risks beyond the public system.
What Is PFAS?
The detection of PFOA in Irving’s water supply raises concerns about the broader issue of PFAS contamination, which has become a growing problem across the United States.
PFAS, or per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, are a group of man-made chemicals used in various industrial and consumer products. They’re known for their water—and oil-repellent properties, but they’re also highly persistent in the environment and can accumulate in the human body over time.
Exposure to PFAS has been linked to several health concerns, including cancer, immune system deficiencies, and developmental issues. The contamination level found in Irving’s water system highlights the need for more stringent regulations and monitoring of these chemicals to ensure the safety of our drinking water in Texas and beyond.
PFAS’s Connection to Cancer
Let’s talk about PFAS’s link to cancer.
Studies have shown that exposure to PFAS is associated with an increased risk of testicular cancer.
PFAS exposure has also been linked to a higher likelihood of developing ulcerative colitis, a type of inflammatory bowel disease that can increase the risk of colon cancer.
PFAS and Testicular Cancer
How do PFAS chemicals like PFOA, found in Irving’s water supply, increase the risk of testicular cancer? Studies have linked PFAS water contamination to a higher incidence of testicular cancer.
The City of Irving’s water system in Texas recently detected concerning levels of PFOA, a type of PFAS chemical. As personal injury lawyers, we investigate how this may impact residents’ health.
PFAS can accumulate in the body over time through contaminated drinking water. They disrupt the endocrine system and cause oxidative stress, damaging DNA and promoting abnormal cell growth in the testicles.
While more research is needed, evidence suggests that PFAS exposure may contribute to the development of testicular tumors. Contact your doctor if you live in Irving and are concerned about your health.
PFAS and Ulcerative Colitis
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Health Risks Associated With PFOA Exposure?
We’ve found that PFOA exposure can increase risks of kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid disease, and pregnancy complications. Limiting exposure and ensuring safe drinking water is crucial to protect our health and families.
How Long Has PFOA Contamination Been Present in Irving’s Water System?
We are still determining how long PFOA has been in Irving’s water system. The contamination was detected on 1/29/2024 at 4.9 ppt, but it may have been there earlier.
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.