Contamination concerns have been raised in Rockford, Michigan, as toxic PFAS chemicals were found in the groundwater near Wolverine Worldwide’s global headquarters. PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are highly persistent and harmful chemicals that have been linked to various health issues, including kidney cancer. The discovery has left residents wondering how long they have been exposed to contaminated water and if it could explain their health problems.
The contamination was first detected by consultants last fall in Courtland Township, where Wolverine’s headquarters is located. Of the 17 properties near the headquarters, 10 have wells contaminated with PFAS levels above the state’s allowable criteria. The highest concentration, about 200 parts-per-trillion (ppt), was found in the well of Janet and Royce Washburn, who have lived in their home for 46 years.
What makes this contamination case different from previous instances involving Wolverine is that this time it is coming from the company’s main office campus rather than a landfill or old farm gravel pit. The headquarters, which sits on about 200 acres of mostly wooded land, used to house a shoe manufacturing facility. The contamination is believed to be a result of the sediment dredged from the nearby Rogue River and deposited at the headquarters when the tannery, which treated leather with 3M Scotchgard, closed in 2009.
The revelation that Wolverine had dumped the sediment at its headquarters raised questions about transparency and compliance with environmental regulations. Local environmental activists argue that the company should have shared the sediment disposal permits with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) during previous investigations. EGLE officials were surprised by the disclosure and are now working to determine the best course of action.
While the full extent of the contamination is still being investigated, the Kent County Health Department is providing Courtland Township residents with contaminated wells with filters. Some residents have resorted to buying bottled water or installing filtration systems themselves. The situation has left homeowners feeling confused and concerned about their health and the lack of action from Wolverine.
This case adds to the growing concern over PFAS contamination in Michigan and highlights the need for stricter regulations and transparency from companies like Wolverine. The discovery of toxic chemicals in the groundwater serves as a reminder of the long-lasting impact of industrial pollution on communities and the importance of addressing environmental issues promptly and effectively.
