The Orange Water and Sewer Authority announced Thursday it has received $1.96 million for PFAS treatment as part of a settlement with the company 3M, a major manufacturer of PFAS. According to OWASA, the funds will be used to offset the cost of treatment to reduce PFAS in the community’s drinking water. PFAS is an acronym for a harmful group of compounds used in various industrial processes and products. A manufactured byproduct from items like non-stick pans, water-resistant or stain-resistant fabrics and cleaning supplies, PFAS are called “forever chemicals” because of their resiliency in the environment — often ending up in wastewater treatment, landfills, and nature after passing through carriers. Studies are still be conducted on the chemicals’ health impacts, but early research shows PFAS could contribute to increased risks of cancer, liver damage, immune system disorders, and pregnancy complications. OWASA began monitoring its PFAS levels in 2018 after NC State and Duke publis...