Local Municipality Issues Response To Groundwater Crisis

HORSHAM, PA -- Horsham Township issued a firm response on Friday to the developing groundwater contamination crisis, exhorting the military to make the health of local residents a top priority.

The announcement came after the Department of Defense, pressured by local and state lawmakers, said they would look into the possible groundwater contamination and health effects not only from Willow Grove, but at 664 sites across the country.

Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base Willow Grove was allegedly the site of contamination from firefighting chemicals used on the base.

"Protecting the health and safety of both our residents and business community is our number one priority," said council presidetn Deborah Tustin. "We ask that the Federal Government put the study as their highest priority to our current and future residents."

Horsham shut down two water wells in 2015 over concerns of potential contamination.

The chemicals, perfluoroctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluoroocatanoic acid (PFOA) have been linked to cancer and other serious diseases.

William Walker, the township manager, said that the Navy had "stepped forward and is addressing the potential environmental issues with both money and actions."

Soil and sediment sampling have been scheduled for early spring, according to the township.