The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) received sample results from Johnson Controls, Inc., and Tyco Fire Products, (JCI/Tyco), confirming the presence of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in surface water foam collected on waterways in the city of Marinette and the town of Peshtigo.

JCI/Tyco collected surface water foam from small streams as part of ongoing site investigation and response activities associated with PFAS contamination from JCI/Tyco’s Fire Technology Center in Marinette as part of JCI/Tyco’s surface water foam response work plan. This is the first-time surface water foam collected from the ditches has been tested for PFAS.

From March 19 – May 19, 2021, JCI/Tyco removed 57 gallons of foam that had accumulated on ditches B and C. JCI/Tyco submitted a report documenting the locations and volumes of surface water foam collected this spring. The surface water foam that was collected from ditches B and C was combined and stored in sealed containers at the Fire Technology Center.

The DNR and Department of Health Services (DHS) recommend that people avoid coming into contact with any foam observed on waterways – either due to natural bacteria or chemicals. Additional information may be found on the DNR’s PFAS Contamination in the Marinette and Peshtigo Area webpage.