PFAS in drinking water
Per– and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, are a large group of human-made chemicals used for decades in many products, such as water-resistant clothing, non-stick cookware, and cleaning products. These manufactured chemicals are used in products for their strength and resistance to heat, water, and oil.
PFAS do not break down or disappear naturally in the environment. When PFAS are made, used, disposed of, or spilled near water sources, like rivers, aquifers or wells, the chemicals can get into drinking water. Because PFAS do not break down easily, they may remain in water supplies for many years and have been found in people, wildlife, and fish.
People can be exposed to PFAS in drinking water, food, indoor dust, some consumer products, and workplaces. Scientists are still studying how PFAS affect people’s health. Some PFAS can build up in people’s bodies and, over time, may cause harmful health effects.
The presence of PFAS in drinking water can only be determined through laboratory testing. You can’t see, taste, or smell PFAS in your water. Visit the PFAS in drinking water webpage to learn more.
Chicks and ducklings
Spring is the season for chicks and ducklings. Whether adding feathered friends to your backyard flock or visiting them at a petting zoo, make sure to stay healthy around backyard poultry.
Chicks, ducklings and other live poultry can carry illness causing Salmonella bacteria – even if they appear clean and healthy. The birds shed germs through their droppings which can easily contaminate areas where they live and roam.
Young children are especially at risk for serious illness. Make sure children never nuzzle or kiss chicks or ducklings. If children handle live chicks or ducklings, make sure they wash their hands immediately after with soap and warm water.
Free online workshops
Clark County’s Composter Recycler program is offering a series of free sustainability webinars this spring. The eight webinars will highlight personal changes that can help protect the planet.
Webinar topics include backyard composting, lasagna bed composting, green cleaning, Recycling Done Right, worm bin composting, food waste prevention and low waste living. Pre-registration is required for all webinars. To register, visit the Composter Recycler webpage.
The Composter Recycler program educates the community about easy ways to reduce waste, increase recycling and create healthier homes.
Temporary food events
Farmers markets and public events offer many opportunities for local food vendors to showcase and sell their products within our community. Food vendors have a variety of ways to offer us new flavors, recipes and products to explore.
If you are interested in selling food at events or farmers markets, or you are coordinating food vendors for an event in Clark County, check out our frequently asked questions about temporary events!
Public Health news
Thursday, May 25, 2023
Wednesday, May 10, 2023
Friday, Apr 28, 2023
Public records request
To request public records involving Public Health, please access the Public Records Request Portal, create an account and complete the submittal process.