In 2024, volunteers from the Friends of Starkweather Creek tested 20 water bodies around Dane County to measure levels of PFAS flowing into the Yahara River watershed from the Dane County Airport, where fire-fighting foam has been used for many years. Unfortunately, significant levels of PFAS were found in Starkweather Creek, and downstream in Lakes Monona, Waubesa, and Kegonsa.

You can find our detailed report, along with the testing map at the Friends of Starkweather Creek Website .

In 2025, we again tested 10 locations around Dane County. Our goal is to continue PFAS testing in 2026. Any funds we gather from this fundraiser will be used to cover the costs of PFAS sampling test kits and laboratory analysis.

The Friends of Starkweather Creek call for immediate and effective efforts to reduce the sources of ongoing PFAS pollution in our waters. As proponents of clean water, clean air, natural spaces, and public health, we want to bring awareness to this longstanding problem. With knowledge and data we can advocate for our leaders to take action!