EPA Says Parchments Water is Undrinkable

The Environmental Protection Agency says that the PFAS levels in Parchments water is 20 times higher than the EPA's lifetime health advisory. Residents are not surprised.

Cooper Township resident Larry Fike said, "It's probably been here for years."

A state of emergency was announced Saturday for Parchment residents to not cook or drink the contaminated water. Free bottled water is being distributed at Parchment High School.

Resident Michelle Harmon who has children ages 7, 14 and 15 said, "It breaks your heart because you feel like you did it, even though we didn't do it, like I poisoned my own family by paying the water company, who I though was giving me clean water. I feel like I can't trust what God has given us to stay alive."

Harmon went on to say, "I want to know if they've found a location as to where it's coming from and if it's multiple locations. I want answers and a real plan of action. I think that's what everyone really wants at this point."

"I want to know if they've found a location as to where it's coming from and if it's multiple locations," Harmon said. "I want answers and a real plan of action. I think that's what everyone really wants at this point."

Fike said, Everyone wants to blame the paper mill, but I don't know. I'm 67 ears old and I drank the water since I was 5. What can I say? I'm still here."

Fike also said, "I'm concerned now because I'm learning what's going on and what this means, but for 50 years I've been drinking this water."

In the meantime, volunteers continue to hand out free bottle water from Noon to 8 p.m. at the Parchment High School located at 1916 East G Avenue.

There will be a town hall meeting Tuesday from 5-6 p.m. and from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the the Haven Reformed Church at 5350 Sprinkle Road.

If you are a Parchment resident and have any questions or need more information contact the local water hotline at 269.373.5346.