New homeowner shocked by water test results when authorities ignored concerns: 'It shocked me'

A resident of Torbay, Newfoundland, discovered hazardous chemicals in his well despite it being situated far from what authorities believe is the contamination source, according to CBC News. Kenneth Baird spent over $4,000 of his own money on laboratory testing and cleanup equipment after government agencies repeatedly refused to assist him. Laboratory tests revealed PFAS levels in his well more than twice the amount deemed safe for consumption by health authorities.

Bairds property is located outside the initial investigation area identified by Transport Canada. He had assumed that natural barriers, including the distance from St. John's International Airport and intervening hills, would prevent any pollutants from reaching his home. "I was stunned to learn that the contamination had traveled this far from the airport," he said.

Legal representatives have filed a lawsuit on behalf of residents in two underground water zones near Torbay, potentially affecting up to 700 homes. The claim attributes the contamination to airport emergency drills that used fire-suppressing foam. However, no judge has approved the lawsuit yet, and the case has not proceeded to trial.

Baird contacted Transport Canada twice requesting well inspections, but both attempts were denied. He subsequently hired a private laboratory to test his water. A local chemistry professor also investigated wells beyond the official inspection area and found PFAS contamination there as well.

PFAS, or poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances, are known as "forever chemicals" because they persist indefinitely in the environment and human body. Research links them to several types of cancer and other serious health conditions.

The situation in Torbay illustrates that these chemicals can travel through underground water systems much farther than previously believed. Baird had assumed natural land formations would block the contamination, yet it moved through the soil and rock beneath his property. Residents in affected areas have been purchasing bottled water and cleanup equipment with their own funds.

The lawyer representing the plaintiffs argues that Transport Canada typically reacts to contamination rather than preventing it. Many families rely on private wells for drinking water. When inspections are limited and free water programs do not expand, homeowners cannot be certain their water is safe.

Transport Canada has now extended its inspection zone to include areas such as Mahons Lane and Quigley's Lane, beyond the original boundaries. Officials say they are coordinating with local authorities to test additional homes. Residents concerned about PFAS are encouraged to contact their water utility or public health office for testing, and to use certified filters capable of removing PFAS while broader solutions are developed. Transparency from agencies managing contaminated sites is crucial, and residents are encouraged to advocate for expanded inspections and access to safe drinking water.

Author: Sophia Brooks