PIERRE, S.D. — The Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR), in partnership with the South Dakota Soybean Checkoff, announced the start of a statewide PFAS foam collection and SoyFoam exchange initiative to help safely remove and destroy firefighting foams containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
PFAS, sometimes referred to as “forever chemicals,” have been widely used in firefighting foams for decades. Exposure to PFAS has been linked to a range of negative health effects. These compounds do not easily break down in the environment and can contaminate soil and water resources.
“The PFAS foam collection and SoyFoam exchange partnership with the South Dakota Soybean Checkoff is important in protecting our state’s natural resources,” said Secretary Hunter Roberts. “By working with local fire departments, we can safely collect and destroy PFAS materials before they threaten our environment.”
Earlier this year, fire departments across South Dakota volunteered to participate in the initiative. Departments that provide their PFAS-based firefighting foam to DANR will be given a 5-gallon container of a soy-based alternative foam from the South Dakota Soybean Checkoff designed to help meet operational needs while reducing environmental impact.
“The South Dakota Soybean Checkoff Board greatly values its partnership with DANR in providing local firefighters with SoyFoam, a product developed through research funded by the Soybean Checkoff. SoyFoam is safe for firefighters to use, environmentally friendly, and helps build demand for soybeans grown by South Dakota farm families,” said Jerry Schmitz, Executive Director of the South Dakota Soybean Checkoff.
Collections will take place over the coming weeks, with DANR’s Inspection, Compliance, and Remediation (ICR) Division coordinating logistics and ensuring that all PFAS materials are safely collected, transported, and destroyed at an approved hazardous waste facility.
In 2020, DANR conducted a similar statewide foam collection effort. A total of 3,875 gallons of PFAS-containing foam were collected from 36 fire departments and one airport. Efforts of this year’s initiative will be announced following the collection from participating fire departments.
DANR appreciates the cooperation of local fire departments and the partnership with the South Dakota Soybean Checkoff. Together, this initiative fulfills DANR’s mission and South Dakota’s commitment to protecting and preserving our natural resources.